As Brazil's betting industry prepares for a regulatory overhaul in 2025, the recent ban on gambling bonuses, including those for slot games, highlights the government’s commitment to responsible gambling.
Issued by the National Consumer Secretariat (SENACON), the prohibition extends to all customer incentives, including sign-up bonuses and promotional offers. This move reflects broader efforts to build a sustainable and fair gambling environment while mitigating risks like addiction and underage gambling.
With the end of bonuses and new promotional offers focused on players’ safety and responsible gambling, the iGaming market is even more likely to keep a steady growth.
The directive from SENACON prohibits all promotions offering rewards such as upfront payments, bonuses, or other incentives aimed at attracting new players. Advertising targeting minors has also been banned. Gambling operators must also submit compliance transparency reports, with non-compliance penalties set at R$ 50,000 per day.
Brazil's recent ban on casino bonuses represents a significant shift for leading operators in the iGaming industry. Traditionally, these promotional offers were crucial in attracting new players to popular games, such as Fortune Tiger, a favored slot according to KTO data.
However, with the elimination of these bonuses, operators are now encouraged to concentrate on fundamental elements such as platform security, user experience, and mobile app development.
This shift promotes a more sustainable market where long-term player retention relies on trust and engagement rather than short-term incentives. By emphasizing transparency and responsible gambling, Brazil’s regulatory framework sets the stage for operators willing to adapt and thrive in a more competitive and accountable environment.
Enhanced transparency could significantly improve trust in the industry. In 2024, Brazil faced a notable trust deficit in its regulatory efforts concerning online gambling. According to a survey, only 19% of respondents viewed online gambling as "fair" or "very fair." Conversely, 35% considered it "unfair" or "very unfair." Notably, the majority, 45%, maintained a neutral stance, reflecting a widespread sense of skepticism.
Perceptions of fairness in online gambling platforms in Brazil. Source: ENV Media
ALT Text: "Pie chart displaying survey results on the perceived fairness of online casino gambling and sports betting. The segments are: 45% Neutral, 23% Unfair, 12% Very Unfair, 15% Fair, and 4% Very Fair."
This ambivalence stems from persistent misconceptions about the industry, including fears of fraud and dishonest operators. Stricter controls—like banning bonuses and enforcing transparency—might improve the sector’s credibility.
Brazil’s regulatory landscape is set to become more structured as licensing processes advance. Ordinance No. 615, issued earlier by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA), complements the bonus ban by forbidding any promotional advantages related to first-time betting.
This strategy is pivotal for the country's betting industry. Although operators may face short-term challenges in adapting their marketing strategies, the focus on transparency and fairness shall ensure long-term sustainability. Underpinned by trust and regulatory integrity, Brazil's betting market is set for growth, with new licensing and robust consumer protections guiding its 2025 transition from a volatile emerging market to a global benchmark for responsible gambling.
