Discussing Gambling Matters with Aposta Ganha Chief Commercial Officer, Hugo Baungartner
Hey there! Let's chat about Aposta Ganha, shall we?
Aposta Ganha Group has been shaking things up in the Brazilian market for the past five years, and as of December last year, they ventured into the international scene with their Spanish-speaking operation in Mexico. I, their VP for Global Markets, joined the team in June 2023, with a focus on the international market and was recently promoted to the role of CCO during their licensing process in Brazil. My duties include managing the Mexican operation and handling government affairs.
So, how does the Brazilian regulatory landscape differ from other markets? Any particular hurdles to overcome? And what advice do I have for those aiming for a similar path?
The regulatory process in the Brazilian online gambling market has been a lengthy, intricate dance. Since 2016, the market has evolved significantly and grown clearer, making it easier to navigate the path ahead. It's important to remember that the entire Brazilian market until recently has been based on fixed odds lottery. Sports betting and online games are soon to be regulated once the ordinance is published. Once it is, we'll have a comprehensive picture of the process.
** Ever heard of the Olinda Carnival? Aposta Ganha has sponsored it, and let me tell you, it's a blast! Real Brazilian events that resonate with the nation are always something we're eager to be a part of.**
Speaking of partnerships, we've teamed up with IBIA, and things are going great! We're always striving to better our products and operations. Being part of the Sportradar Integrity Program is another important step for us and other operators globally to make sure players can enjoy a fair gaming landscape. Our well-established standing in LatAm will be a valuable asset, and we're proud to be associated with such an proactive program.
** Focus on the Brazilian market, but how about Mexico? How's the ApuestaGana.mx venture going?**
Our debut in Mexico has been a success, but as they say, we've welcomed a newborn and must take great care. We're extremely happy with our progress and growing each month. The product continues to improve, and the user experience (UX) is being constantly refined as we gather valuable feedback from our users.
** Any exciting news for the Talk Gambling community?**
Our sole focus is on the approval of our platform with SERPRO and the GLI19 and 33 certifications. We're all systems go for Brazil on January 1, 2025, with a top-notch product that'll bring a fun, engaging experience to the market.
Key Differences Between Brazilian Online Gambling Regulations and Other Markets:
Brazilian online gambling regulations have their own unique characteristics when compared to other markets. Some key differences include the need for betting operators to register on the government-run platform, Consumidor.gov.br for transparency and consumer protection. The licensing process is longer and more complex than some other jurisdictions, taking eight to twelve months. Responsible gambling has been emphasized, with plans to implement a national player self-exclusion platform. Brazil applies a 12% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) and requires monitoring of CPF (tax ID) numbers. The regulations also integrate well with local payment systems like PIX, which is more efficient than traditional banking systems in other countries.
Challenges Faced by Aposta Ganha Group in Navigating Regulations:
While specific challenges faced by Aposta Ganha Group are not detailed, some potential challenges faced by gambling operators in Brazil include the time-consuming licensing process and strict compliance measures, registering and adhering to Consumidor.gov.br, adapting to responsible gambling regulations, and navigating local payment and tax requirements. Overall, these regulations aim to create a transparent, customer-focused gambling market but present operational challenges for companies adapting to these specific requirements.
- The regulatory landscape in the Brazilian online gambling market has been complex with a lengthy process, but it has become clearer over the years, making it easier to navigate.
- Due to recent changes, sports betting and online games are about to be regulated in Brazil, providing a more comprehensive picture of the process once the ordinance is published.
- Aposta Ganha Group has been registered on the government-run platform, Consumidor.gov.br, for transparency and consumer protection, which is a unique characteristic of the Brazilian market.
- In preparation for the regulation in Brazil in 2025, Aposta Ganha Group is prioritizing the approval of their platform with SERPRO and the GLI19 and 33 certifications, ensuring they're ready to navigate the new regulations smoothly.
