With 1,200+ delegates from more than 79 countries and 50 expert speakers confirmed, the Forum is the largest annual gathering of CEOs, regulators, ministers, and industry associations across the gaming ecosystem.
This year’s agenda will address the industry’s most pressing themes, including regulation, the fight against illegal gambling, AI-driven transformation, and global market expansion. Within this high-level environment, BetMGM Brazil will play a leading role.
A deep dive into Brazil’s “Market Under Construction”
On 21 January (11:55–12:35, CC5.1), BetMGM Brazil will deliver the session: Case Study: Brazil in Play — The Challenge of Operating in a Market Under Construction”.
Brazil is at a historic turning point as it consolidates its new regulated betting environment. Three BetMGM Brazil’s executives will examine the three pillars required for entering an emerging market:
1- Product
2- Marketing
3- Operations and responsible gaming
This case study looks at the main challenges of operating in an environment still taking shape: from regulation to building trust among operators, the government, and the public, as well as adapting international marketing practices to the specificities of local market.
At the same time, how do you incorporate your new operation into your existing global footprint, platforms and reporting?
Attendees will gain first-hand insights into developing local strategies while upholding international standards of integrity and innovation.
Meet the BetMGM Brazil experts leading the discusión
BetMGM Brazil is the Brazilian division of BetMGM, one of the world’s leading sports betting and iGaming brands formed through a joint venture between Entain and MGM Resorts International.
As BetMGM expands globally, Brazil represents one of its most strategic markets due to the country’s rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, strong digital adoption, and massive national passion for sports—especially football.
In Brazil, BetMGM has positioned itself as a premium platform, combining international technological standards with deep local expertise. The brand focuses on delivering a robust offering of sports betting, casino, live games, and innovative digital experiences tailored specifically to Brazilian players.
These are the company executives who will participate in the panel:
* Ana Paula Castello Branco — CMO, BetMGM Brazil
A 25-year veteran of consumer goods, telecom, and digital industries, Ana Paula is one of Brazil’s most respected marketing leaders. Named Brazil’s Best Marketing Executive (Caboré Award, 2022) and a Woman to Watch (Ad Age, 2020), she brings unparalleled expertise in branding, innovation, integrated media, and digital experiences.
* André "Sapuca" Nogueira — Principal Product Manager, BetMGM Brazil
Sapuca is a product innovation specialist with over 15 years of experience in digital platforms, iGaming, LiveOps, and F2P. His track record includes a 3.85x YoY revenue increase at Rivalry.com in Brazil. He is certified as both a Scrum Master and PMP.
* Daniel Xavier — COO, BetMGM Brazil
With more than two decades of leadership in gaming, Daniel co-founded Pipa Studios and managed Brazil and Mexico’s top social bingo game, generating US$12 million in 2023. His earlier work with betboo.com and Sportingbet helped define Brazil’s early iGaming landscape. He holds an MBA from Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV).
Together, these executives will provide one of the event’s most anticipated and relevant case studies for any operator entering Brazil or expanding across Latin America.
Brazil’s strong presence continues with Bet da Sorte
Brazil’s role at the Forum will extend beyond BetMGM’s case study. On 20 January (12:15–13:00, CC4.1), Tom Santos, Chief Commercial Officer of Bet da Sorte, will join the panel Protecting Growth, Safety and Integrity in Global Sports Markets.
Tom, a specialist in marketing, regulatory strategy, and partnership development, has played a crucial role in expanding one of Brazil’s leading licensed lottery and iGaming brands. His participation adds further depth to Brazil’s influence at the Forum.
A defining moment for Brazil on the global stage
With both BetMGM Brazil and Bet da Sorte contributing high-level thought leadership, the ICE World Gaming Forum 2026 highlights Brazil’s growing importance in the global gaming landscape.
As regulation advances and international interest intensifies, Brazil is positioning itself not only as a major market but as a source of expertise shaping the future of gaming worldwide.
Other companies confirmed to speak at the World Gaming Forum include Snapchat, LeoVegas and FDJ - with more to be announced soon.
Visit the official website to view a full speaker list.
Source: GMB
