Association of Games and Lotteries Challenges Central Bank Data on Bolsa Família Usage in Betting

The debate between the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) and the Central Bank (BC) has intensified following the publication of a technical note by the BC. The institution claimed that 21 billion reais are moved monthly in gambling activities in Brazil and alleged that Bolsa Família beneficiaries are using part of these funds for sports betting.

ANJL rejected the information, labeling the figures as unfounded and lacking a solid basis. According to the association, the target audience for gambling—predominantly male—does not align with the majority profile of Bolsa Família beneficiaries, who are mostly women.

Additionally, the National Confederation of Commerce (CNC) emphasized the negative impacts of gambling, including harm to players’ mental health and to the popular economy. The CNC also criticized the lack of policies to prevent compulsive gambling and the ease of access to online gambling, which directly affects the retail sector.

According to the BC, gambling activities moved 20.8 billion reais in August 2024, surpassing the lottery market. The institution further estimates that 3 billion reais were sent by Bolsa Família beneficiaries to gambling companies.

The controversy has sparked reactions from various sectors, with the Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) demanding increased oversight from the government and involved companies. The TCU has called for stricter action by the Federal Revenue Service and the financial intelligence agency to analyze suspicious operations.

With 70 companies authorized to operate in the country, each under a concession fee of 30 million reais and a 12% tax on gross revenues, the federal government sees the gambling sector as an opportunity to boost revenue. However, the use of Bolsa Família funds in gambling remains a sensitive topic, requiring close attention in the coming weeks.