A survey by Hibou has brought to light data on the motivations, behaviors, and challenges faced by gamblers in Brazil. The study reveals that 68% of the national population actively participates in some form of gambling, with the majority choosing the lottery. Following are raffles (25%), sports betting known as "bets" (11%), bingo (10%), and online casino, with a highlight on the game "Tigrinho" (8%).
For Lígia Mello, CSO of Hibou, responsible for the survey, it is impressive to observe how betting permeates the lives of Brazilians, whether for fun, financial gain, or even the influence of friends and family. “This study helps us understand the cultural and economic impact that gambling games have in the country," she states.
Conducted between August 7 and 9, 2024, with 2,839 Brazilians from all social classes, lotteries appear as the most popular choice among Brazilian gamblers, with 47% of respondents stating that they play in this modality.
According to Mello, “The lottery is a tradition deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. Many people see it as an opportunity not just to win money, but to dream of a life change.”
Following are raffles (25%), sports betting known as “bets” (11%), bingo (10%), and the online casino, with a highlight on the game “Tigrinho” (8%).
Advertisements play an important role in the behavior of gamblers, with 42% stating they see gambling ads on TV, 33% on Instagram, and 19% are impacted by influencers. Thus, 19% of gamblers reported a “high” level of influence from advertisements on their betting decisions.
Sports bets and the impact of sponsorship
Sports betting, popularly known as “bets,” has been gaining ground in Brazil, with 11% of gamblers dedicating themselves to this modality. Among the main factors influencing the choice of betting house are recommendations from friends and family (32%), the reputation of the house (31%), and the fact that the brand sponsors their football team (31%).
The survey indicates that 71% of gamblers are more inclined to bet when the team they support is sponsored by a betting brand.
“Sports betting, especially those made on ‘bets’ platforms, reflect how much sport and entertainment are linked to the personal desires of Brazilians,” comments Ligia Mello. “Sport sponsorship directly influences the behavior of gamblers, showing that trust and emotional engagement with a team play a crucial role in betting decisions.”
The Tigrinho: the phenomenon of online casinos
Another relevant data from the survey concerns the game “Tigrinho,” which leads among the options of online casino games, being the preference of 69% of players in this segment. Gamblers in Brazil who play “Tigrinho” are also those who spend the most time and money playing. The majority (50%) spend between R$ 10 and R$ 50 per round, and 34% invest up to between R$ 200 and R$ 500 per month on these platforms.
“It is curious how ‘Tigrinho’ has become a phenomenon among online casino gamblers. The game offers a combination of immediacy and simplicity, which attracts players of different profiles,” highlights Lígia Mello. “However, the lack of understanding of the model and the perception of possible gain have put Brazilians in debt, as they lose control in this model.”
Additionally, 78% of “Tigrinho” players are unclear about the total they have spent on this type of game, raising concerns about financial control and the potential for addiction. The predominant profile of these players is recreational (41%), followed by those who play with regular frequency (31%) and those who consider themselves strategic (21%).
Limits and frequency of betting
When asked about the monthly financial limits for betting in general, 50% of Brazilian gamblers set a limit between R$ 50 and R$ 100, while 36% admitted to not having a defined limit. The frequency of betting varies, with 42% playing occasionally, 17% betting once or twice a week, and 3% reporting that they play daily.
The reality of non-gamblers
Among the 32% of Brazilians who do not participate in gambling games, the main reasons are a lack of trust in the honesty of betting systems (44%), a lack of available money (30%), and the absence of examples of winners in their social circle (25%).
Among them, 88% believe that these games can be addictive, and 69% consider online casinos as the most dangerous modality in this respect.
Additionally, 65% of non-gamblers know someone who has gone into debt because of betting, with 27% of these financial problems remaining unresolved.
Perspectives and regulation
The survey also addressed the perception of non-gamblers about the regulation of gambling games. 73% believe that gaming companies should pay more taxes, and 39% think that the legalization and regulation of gambling would bring more security for those who bet.
Source: GMB
