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President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil has expressed his willingness to ban online sports betting companies if regulatory measures fail. The president shared his thoughts on Thursday during a radio interview with Radio Metrópole in Salvador, Bahia.
Lula emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable families and children from the potential risks of online gambling. He stated that if regulation proves ineffective, he would not hesitate to end this activity altogether.
The Brazilian government has already taken steps to control online betting. This month, they prohibited bets that do not comply with the Finance Ministry‘s rules. As a result, over 2,000 betting-related websites have been blocked in Brazil.
On Wednesday, Lula met with bank representatives to discuss how the online sports betting industry affects bank loan defaults. This meeting highlights the growing concern about the economic impact of online gambling on Brazilian families.
Roberto Campos Neto, the President of Brazil’s Central Bank, recently voiced his worries about the economic effects of online sports betting debts. He noted a significant increase in bank transfers to betting houses this year.
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According to Campos Neto, these transfers have risen by 200 percent, leading to increased defaults on other payment obligations. This trend is causing concern among financial institutions and policymakers.
A study by the National Confederation of Commerce, Goods, Services, and Tourism (CNC) provides further insight into the situation. The report indicates that 1.3 million people have defaulted on bank loans due to online betting.
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The CNC study also reveals that 22 percent of Brazilian families have engaged in online betting this year. This statistic underscores the widespread nature of the issue and its potential impact on household finances.
As Brazil grapples with regulating online betting, the government faces the challenge of balancing economic interests with social responsibility. The coming months will likely see further developments in this ongoing debate.