GMB: What can you tell us about your participation in BgC 2019? What topics will you talk about?
Sergio Alvarenga: Intralot has been in the gambling market since 1992 and today is one of the world's leading players in the lottery and sports betting market. We have been in Brazil since 2008, so we already have a history in the country and a lot of market knowledge. The idea is to contribute with our experience.
Could you give us a brief advance of the content of your session?
The subject of sports betting and other modalities in Brazil is quite complex, since to establish an operation in the country, one must consider legal insecurities, tax issues, strategic partners, ways of attracting players, logistics and so on. I want to show a little of this challenge.
Once again the LOTEX concession process did not generate interest. What is your opinion on the subject? Why do you think there have been so many postponements and no proposals?
The granting process, as well as the law, must undergo structural changes to make it viable. I believe that SECAP has been doing its best to make it viable.
As a specialist, what would you recommend to the Brazilian government that is now working on changes to attract investors?
Always take into account the best models and the best international practices and the understanding of the net revenues of the games for regulation purposes, ensuring the attractiveness of the country for investments.
Is this the best moment of the partnership that Intralot has with Minas Gerais Lottery? Are there other projects for the future?
Yes, it's been an interesting year for us. People of the state of Mina Gerais are increasingly looking for entertainment games like the ones we offer. We are working together with the Loteria Mineira in search of continuous growth, since it is good for us and for the State, which secures the money for investment in social welfare projects. Not only the Loteria Mineira, but other states like Rio de Janeiro, Mato Grosso do Sul, Paraná, Pernambuco and São Paulo are strengthening and resuming their activities.
Recently, Minas Gerais Lottery and the state ones in general received a very controversial decision from the Justice. Do you have any opinion about it? Do you think of any action against it?
I understand that there is little information from the judiciary on the subject. The actions are being taken by the AGE of Minas Gerais.
Much is said about a hypothetical privatization of the Caixa’s lotteries. What do you think of this possibility?
It will depend a lot on the model, but it can be positive.
Do you think this kind of event like the one that organizes Clarion is useful for the development of the market?
Of course, it's time for clarification and networking.
BgC is Brazil's most respected gaming industry congress, providing unrivaled access to ministers, federal deputies, senators and local governors working to regulate this rapidly growing jurisdiction. With fixed odds sports betting, integrated casino resorts and privatization of lotteries under discussion in the Brazilian government, 2019 marks a true turning point in this vibrant emerging market. The event will be held at Tivoli Mofarrej in São Paulo and to register or become a Sponsor / Exhibitor, see all information on the official BgC website: www.brasiliangamingcongress.com.
Source: Exclusive Games Magazine Brasil
