Key Moments:
- The Northeast’s regulated fixed-odds betting industry has accelerated with 14 active companies and 37 licensed brands
- Initial capital of R$885 million is projected to multiply into R$3.3 billion across related sectors following Law 14.790/23
- Employment in the sector supports higher-than-average wages and adds approximately R$135 million in annual payroll
Market Expansion and Financial Impact
The arrival of a regulated fixed-odds betting industry is already proving to be a catalyst for economic growth in Northeast Brazil. Based on findings from the study “Panorama do Mercado de Apostas de Quota Fixa,” conducted in November 2025 by LCA Consultores and Cruz Consulting in conjunction with the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) and the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL), this market segment is quickly gathering momentum. The region is currently home to 14 operational betting companies and 37 licensed brands, underscoring its rising influence as an engine for job creation, income, and tax collection.
The sector’s R$885 million in initial investment capital is expected to generate as much as R$3.3 billion in adjacent industries, propelled by an economic multiplier of R$3.74 for every R$1 of investment. These findings come in the context of Law 14.790/23, which has brought forth comprehensive requirements concerning licensing, compliance, security measures, and the fight against illegal gambling operations.
André Gelfi, co-founder and director of the IBJR, stated, “a new cycle of opportunities, supported by technology, formal jobs, and broad economic impact across sports, entertainment, and marketing ecosystems.”
Job Creation and Industry Specialization
The study reveals robust job growth and the rapid emergence of specialized roles within the industry. Currently, the fixed-odds betting sector in Northeast Brazil supports 2,000 direct and outsourced positions, with an additional 1,100 indirect jobs. Efforts to expand operations have led to the establishment of 20 new technical job categories, including system developers, market research analysts, data specialists, and graphic industrial designers.
The sector also employs individuals with higher education at rates double the regional average. Average monthly wages in the industry are R$5,800, a figure that stands out compared to typical regional earnings. The industry’s annual payroll totals R$135 million, augmented by R$18 million in social contributions such as FGTS and INSS. For every R$1 of income generated, as much as R$2.21 is recirculated into the broader economy.
| Category | Figure |
|---|---|
| Active Companies | 14 |
| Licensed Brands | 37 |
| Initial Capital Investment | R$885 million |
| Economic Multiplier | R$3.74 per R$1 invested |
| Projected Connected Revenue | R$3.3 billion |
| Total Payroll (Annual) | R$135 million |
| Average Monthly Salary | R$5,800 |
Impact on Tax Revenue
The regulated betting market has significantly contributed to public finances. In 2025, anticipated fiscal contributions from the Northeast include:
- R$265 million to the State Participation Fund (FPE)
- R$351 million to the Municipal Participation Fund (FPM)
- R$1.7 billion in IRPJ and CSLL taxes nationwide, with proportional redistribution
ANJL president Plínio Lemos Jorge highlighted that regulation is already delivering “concrete returns to society in the form of taxes, investments, and skilled employment”, reaffirming the benefits of operating under defined legal frameworks.
Regular technology enterprise taxes also apply to betting operators, further supporting public policy financing efforts.
Strengthened Regulation and Consumer Protection
The introduction of a regulated environment has led to greater security and transparency for both providers and players. New mandatory safeguards include:
- Use of the .bet.br domain
- CPF identification and face recognition for players
- Ban on sign-up bonuses as a marketing device
- Direct oversight from the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA)
According to Lemos, sponsorships from licensed betting operators play an essential role in sustaining the financial health and competitiveness of sports organizations, while unlicensed operators undermine the market by evading taxes.
Despite these advances, it is estimated that around 50% of betting activity in Brazil remains illegal, indicating ongoing challenges. Continued improvements are needed in supplier oversight, payment processes, and advertising regulations to ensure consumer protection and reinforce trust in the sector. Lemos stated that “effective regulation is about predictability, legal certainty, and trust, being the basis of a transparent and competitive market that attracts new operators while protecting bettors.”
- Author
Daniel Williams
