“This news that Caixa Econômica will also enter this market is an insult to the Brazilian people. I hope the Presidential Palace shows at least a minimum of common sense and coherence—if that’s still possible—to block this attempt,” he stated.
“I’m referring today to a petition that I and Senator Cleitinho have filed with the Federal Audit Court, raising serious questions about the validity of Caixa Econômica Federal implementing betting in Brazil. It’s yet another major inconsistency from this government,” Girão added.
The senator presented figures on the economic and social impact of online betting on Brazilians, arguing that millions of social program beneficiaries have already directed part of their income toward online gaming platforms.
According to Girão, this activity deepens the vulnerability of low-income families and strengthens organized crime. He cited reports from the National Confederation of Commerce and Tourism (CNC) indicating that these platforms are being used for money laundering by criminal factions, and that funds previously spent on essential household consumption—such as food, education, and leisure—are being redirected toward online betting.
“A report from the Central Bank of Brazil showed that, in August of last year alone, five million Bolsa Família beneficiaries made Pix payments to betting sites, totaling more than R$3 billion (US$558m),” he said.
“According to 2024 reports from the National Confederation of Commerce and Tourism, R$103 billion (US$19.1bn) left the retail sector and went to betting companies. Money that once went to savings, restaurants, leisure, and education for the Brazilian people is now being diverted to ‘Bets,’ which launder funds for organized crime,” Girão concluded.
Source: Agência Senado
