Betting in Brazil: A Game for Profit or a Path to Debt?
In the 8th edition of the Raio X do Investidor Brasileiro study, ANBIMA expanded its analysis to include betting. While betting is growing in popularity, so are its associated risks. Here are the key takeaways:
📈 15% of Brazilian adults placed bets in 2024
That’s around 23 million people — a higher percentage than for most financial products. Notably, 4 million Brazilians consider betting a form of investment. A year ago, that figure was 22%, but it’s now down to 16%.
💸 Nearly half of bettors are in debt
Betting and debt go hand in hand: 47% of bettors have overdue financial obligations. Among those who see betting as an investment, the number rises to 51%. By comparison, the national average is 33%.
🎯 The main goal is to "make money"
The primary motivation for most bettors is quick financial gain — especially among those with limited savings or who see betting as a solution to money problems. Only the "Diversifier" profile treats betting as entertainment.
🧠10% of bettors show signs of addiction
That’s around 3 million people. Among them, 21% consider betting an investment. Their average monthly spending is R\$ 683.64 — nearly three times the national average.
🔄 The loss-recovery cycle: 60% try to win their money back
Six in ten players place new bets after losing money. 40% admit to feeling guilt after betting — a direct path to emotional and financial burnout.
📱 Players use betting apps at least once a week
35% access them regularly, with users lacking financial reserves being the most active (37%). Diversifiers bet more frequently but tend to spend more responsibly.
📊 Average betting expenses by profile:
📈 15% of Brazilian adults placed bets in 2024
That’s around 23 million people — a higher percentage than for most financial products. Notably, 4 million Brazilians consider betting a form of investment. A year ago, that figure was 22%, but it’s now down to 16%.
💸 Nearly half of bettors are in debt
Betting and debt go hand in hand: 47% of bettors have overdue financial obligations. Among those who see betting as an investment, the number rises to 51%. By comparison, the national average is 33%.
🎯 The main goal is to "make money"
The primary motivation for most bettors is quick financial gain — especially among those with limited savings or who see betting as a solution to money problems. Only the "Diversifier" profile treats betting as entertainment.
🧠10% of bettors show signs of addiction
That’s around 3 million people. Among them, 21% consider betting an investment. Their average monthly spending is R\$ 683.64 — nearly three times the national average.
🔄 The loss-recovery cycle: 60% try to win their money back
Six in ten players place new bets after losing money. 40% admit to feeling guilt after betting — a direct path to emotional and financial burnout.
📱 Players use betting apps at least once a week
35% access them regularly, with users lacking financial reserves being the most active (37%). Diversifiers bet more frequently but tend to spend more responsibly.
📊 Average betting expenses by profile:
- Diversifiers (use multiple financial tools, have a strategic financial approach): R\$ 241
- No reserves (don't save or invest): R\$ 236
- Savers, non-investors (save money but don’t invest): R\$ 184
- Savings-only (invest only in savings accounts): R\$ 144
- Addicted: R\$ 683