Clarification Note from the National Association of Games and Lotteries regarding UOL Report
The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) clarifies that, in relation to the article “34% postponed graduation in 2025 due to spending on bets, say universities,” published on July 9 by UOL, the sports betting and online gaming sector rejects the construction of narratives that attribute an alleged economic and social decline of Brazilians to the actions of betting operators.
The very study referenced in the article - accessed by ANJL as well - actually shows the opposite in several aspects. In response to the question, “Have you ever refrained from investing in a course, language, or other learning opportunity because you committed your income to sports betting?”, the overwhelming majority (79%) answered no.
In other words, only two out of ten respondents reported such behavior - condemned by the betting industry, which has consistently made it clear that games are a form of entertainment and should never compromise household finances.
Furthermore, the article omitted a key finding from the same study by the Brazilian Association of Higher Education Institutions (Abmes): more than 70% of respondents reported recovering the amount spent on games by playing again.
This scenario clearly shows that it is not accurate to categorize betting only as an expense. Adding to this the finding that most respondents—from all social classes—claimed to spend less than 5% of their income on such activities, it becomes evident that this form of entertainment does not significantly impact the financial well-being of the vast majority of the population.
ANJL also emphasizes that this is an entertainment industry that naturally competes with other forms of leisure. There is no direct link between the habit of betting two to three times a week and a decision to abandon or postpone entry into higher education, as the study and article suggest.
Finally, the association once again reiterates its commitment to Responsible Gaming in Brazil, continuously informing players that betting is solely a form of entertainment, not a source of income or investment.
ANJL also reinforces that, unlike illegal platforms, only a regulated and trustworthy market can operate in the country with true responsibility, condemning any distorted or abusive practices. Building narratives that portray the misguided behavior of a minority as if it were widely adopted only harms the sector—and Brazilian society as a whole.
Founded in March 2023, the National Association of Games and Lotteries advocates for the interests of its members, the sector, and for responsible and ethical gaming, always guided by support for sports, the security of bets, and contribution to the country’s economic development.
Among its members are: Big Brazil e Loteria, Aposta Ganha Loterias, Fast Gaming, OiG Gaming Brazil, Ana Gaming Brasil, Esportes Gaming Brasil (Esportes da Sorte), SPRBT Interactive Brasil (Superbet), Defy, LBBR, Lucky Gaming, Reals Brasil, Gamewiz Brasil, BetBR, Versus Brasil, Sortenabet Gaming Brasil, Blow Marketplace, Vanguard, Digiplus Brazil, Clear Sale, Paag, Pocket Games, Propane, Zero Instituição de Pagamento, Microcash, Betbr, Pagstar Instituição de Pagamento, and Hiper Bet Tecnologia.
National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL)
