IBJR supports measures taken by the Treasury to prevent betting with Bolsa Família funds.

The use of Bolsa Família for online betting

The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) has come forward to fully support the recent statements by the Minister of Finance, Fernando Haddad, during an interview with CBN, regarding the government's planned measures to regulate the betting sector in Brazil. The four major fronts mentioned by the minister are essential to correct the distortions of the irregular market and to protect the Brazilian society, as we analyze below.

Blocking sites that do not seek regulation is undoubtedly a crucial measure for the health of the betting market. The removal of platforms operating outside the law should be seen as a firm and necessary action, an initiative that the IBJR supports fully and unreservedly. 

Regarding payment methods, the government's commitment to banning the use of credit cards and Bolsa Família for betting transactions reflects a legitimate concern about the indebtedness of vulnerable populations. IBJR members have already voluntarily committed to banning credit card transactions on their platforms.

We fully welcome and support any government initiative regarding the end of the use of Bolsa Família subsidies for betting. The IBJR and its members are committed to responsible gaming and will strictly comply with federal government regulations, which require operators to assess the financial capacity of bettors and ensure that their spending is aligned with their income. This principle is the cornerstone of a robust regulatory framework.

All members of the IBJR are deeply committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and minors, actively promoting a safe and regulated gaming environment. We are looking forward to the new era of regulated games starting on January 1st and will fully comply with all government measures and ordinances designed to ensure responsible gaming across the country.

However, we emphasize the need to reassess the measures considered so far regarding the use of Pix – created to reduce the cost of financial transactions, whose blocking does not seem to contribute to the control of indebtedness. On the contrary, the blockage may favor sectors that profit from more expensive transaction fees, such as TEDs, imposing unnecessary costs on consumers.

Regarding the monitoring of bets by CPF, we highlight that the text of the regulation already provides for the use of mechanisms to protect the most vulnerable public. We are available to collaborate with the government, sharing the best practices used around the world that can contribute to a safer and healthier environment for bettors.

In terms of advertising, we recognize the need to regulate this activity, especially when it comes to unregulated operators, who often act outside legal guidelines. The prohibition of advertising for the irregular market is an essential step to prevent the stimulation of uncontrolled gambling, protecting the population from invasive and excessive advertisements.

Finally, we reiterate our support for the path being taken by the government and offer ourselves to collaborate with the authorities in the development of policies that protect consumers and strengthen the legal betting market in Brazil. We also reinforce that betting is a form of entertainment based on unpredictability, without the guarantee of financial gains.

Summary of IBJR commitments:

- Block payments via credit card from 01/10

- All IBJR members have already applied for licenses with SPA/MF

- Follow the MF's guidance on Bolsa Família

- Commitment to the regulatory duties for monitoring CPFs and financial capacity of bettors

- Act in accordance with all federal government ordinances and decisions

- Advocate for the regulation of advertising for the betting sector

Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR)