How Gambling Regulations Compare in Brazil and Around the World

Brazil has often been described as a ‘sleeping giant’ in the world of online betting and gaming, with those in the industry keen to, one day, harness the potential of a country whose population passed the 200,000,000 mark a few years ago. Gambling is a decidedly ‘grey’ area in Brazil, with no formal legislation, nor […]
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sambafoot_admin
2018-08-16 18:00:00

Brazil has often been described as a ‘sleeping giant’ in the world of online betting and gaming, with those in the industry keen to, one day, harness the potential of a country whose population passed the 200,000,000 mark a few years ago.

Gambling is a decidedly ‘grey’ area in Brazil, with no formal legislation, nor a blueprint to make it happen. Still, that has not stopped millions in the soccer mad country having a bet on their favourite teams in Serie A and the seleção.

Indeed, many would pinpoint the beachfront properties in Rio as the perfect location for some Vegas-style super casinos, blending in perfectly with the hedonism and carnival lifestyle of the area. Part of the problem is getting nationwide consensus, particularly difficult in a country with 26 states.

So, can Brazil learn anything from other countries regulations? Is there a pathway for a healthy, legal betting industry? In other countries, some as passionate about soccer as Brazil, there are lessons to be learned:

UK gambling industry among the most liberal of major industrial economies

You cannot turn on a soccer game on UK television without seeing an advert for betting. In fact, many broadcasts of Premier League matches will feature live betting odds, updated in real time. There has been a noted increase in the prevalence of sports betting since the liberalisation of the industry of the UK Gambling Act. You can out find more about it at www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk.

Some will say that the Premier League is over reliant on the betting industry when just over half of teams have a gambling company as a principal sponsor on their shirts. But, it’s also a fact that the two industries are intertwined.

In the UK, the casino industry is just as robust, with both physical and online casinos enjoying the spoils of a liberal market. Indeed, there is some crossover in sports and casino, with the likes of Liverpool’s partnership with Bet Victor creating an official slot game for the Anfield club.

Australia and New Zealand interesting blueprints for Brazil

Australia and New Zealand are often lumped together politically, but their gambling regulations are very distinct. The industry is well regulated in New Zealand, while at the same time affording punters a level of freedom. Soccer, however, is beaten into third place in terms of betting popularity by the sports of rugby union and cricket.

In New Zealand, and to an extent in Australia, there is a passion for slot games, sometimes referred to as ‘pokies’. This ensures that New Zealanders get some of the top-rated slot games to play, including plenty of sports-themed titles.

This means that big international operators have flocked down under to launch casinos and sports sites, but there are also local operators too.

Brazil has much to learn from other countries

Of course, gambling should always be enjoyed responsibly. But there is a sense that Brazil is missing out, especially as much of the industry is pushed towards the black market. A drive towards legislation would benefit everyone, including the finances of the government.

Sure, some will point to an oversaturation of the market in the UK and Down Under, as well as a blurring of the lines between, for example, soccer and betting. But the punters know that their bets are regulated and safe. Brazil should take note.

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