ANJL Defends Brazilian Bettors Against Reckless Spending

ANJL Refutes Claims of Reckless Spending Among Brazilian Bettors

The Brazilian betting industry is under fire with controversial claims suggesting bettors sacrifice essentials to fund their gambling. ANJL, the National Association of Games and Lotteries, stands firm against these accusations, highlighting their commitment to responsible gaming. Discover how ANJL is working to protect players and combat misinformation. Dive into the facts as ANJL defends the integrity of Brazilian bettors and the future of regulated gambling.

In a bold response to growing criticism, the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) has publicly refuted claims that Brazilian bettors are irresponsibly compromising their basic needs to fund their gambling habits. The open letter, issued on September 16, challenges a controversial study by the Brazilian Society of Retail and Consumption (SBVC), which alleged that a significant portion of bettors are cutting back on essential expenditures such as food, clothing, and healthcare.

The SBVC study, based on a sample of 1,337 individuals—only 508 of whom had gambled—claimed that 23% of bettors had reduced clothing purchases, 19% had decreased spending in supermarkets, and 11% had cut back on healthcare and medication costs. Furthermore, the report suggested that 63% of Brazilian gamblers felt their salaries were compromised by gambling. These findings have been widely circulated in the national media, leading to a wave of criticism directed at the betting sector.

ANJL, representing major local betting companies like Betnacional and Aposta Ganha, vehemently disputes the study’s conclusions. The association highlighted contrasting data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), which showed a 1.3% increase in household consumption expenditure in Q2 of 2024 compared to the previous quarter, and a 4.9% year-on-year rise. According to the OECD, household consumption includes all everyday purchases such as food, clothing, energy, and health services, suggesting that essential spending is, in fact, on the rise.

“Claims that the betting industry is responsible for a supposed reduction in consumption by Brazilians or an increase in the level of debt are unfounded,” ANJL stated. The association emphasized that while they acknowledge isolated cases of gambling addiction, these do not represent the broader betting community.

To further demonstrate their commitment to safer gambling, ANJL noted that operators are actively organizing awareness and education campaigns. These initiatives aim to remind players that online gaming and sports betting should be seen as entertainment, not a means of income.

ANJL’s Commitment to a Regulated and Safe Gambling Environment

The ANJL also addressed concerns about the rise of black market gambling due to prolonged regulatory delays, which have allowed unlicensed operators to thrive. The association is optimistic that the impending regulation of the market, set to launch in January 2025, will establish a safer environment for players, with clear rules and punitive measures for non-compliant operators.

“With the entry into force of the regulated market, Brazil will have a safe environment for betting, with clear rules and punitive measures for those who disrespect the main focus of operations: the consumer,” ANJL explained.

The association criticized detractors who oppose regulation, arguing that their stance inadvertently supports illegal operators. “Working against regulation is the same as supporting the permanence of illegal sites in the country, without the slightest concern for the good rules of the regulated market,” ANJL added. “It means empowering those against whom the government fights, serious companies fight, and society must fight.”

ANJL’s strong stance against misinformation highlights the betting industry’s commitment to responsible gambling and player protection. As Brazil moves closer to launching its regulated market, the association remains focused on ensuring a safe and fair environment for all bettors, while challenging unfounded claims that only serve to undermine the integrity of the industry.