Brazil Gambling Regulations Ban Social Betting Features

Brazil Cracks Down on Social Gambling Features

In a significant regulatory update, Brazil's Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) has imposed new restrictions on licensed online gambling operators. The new rules under the evolving Brazil gambling regulations prohibit platforms from using social interaction and engagement mechanisms. This decision impacts all operators licensed under Brazil's Bets regime.

The clarification came after a formal query from Kaizen Gaming. The company sought permission for its brand, Betano, to implement an “integrated social environment” where registered users could share betting slips, highlight favorite casino games, and display wins on their profiles.

SPA Rejects Proposal on Player Safety Grounds

The SPA decisively rejected Kaizen Gaming's proposal, stating that such functions are incompatible with the current regulatory framework. The authority argued these social gambling features could exert undue influence on customers, potentially shifting their behavior towards riskier play. The regulator views the publication of betting slips and wins as a form of data sharing between users, which falls under existing prohibitions.

The official response, signed by Renato Perez Pucci, General Coordinator of Betting Supervision, referenced Ordinance SPA/MF No. 722/2024. This ordinance expressly forbids the incorporation of social interaction tools on digital betting platforms. The SPA warned that any operators found in breach could face administrative sanctions.

Italy Reinforces Strict Bonus Advertising Rules

Meanwhile, in Europe, Italian gambling regulators are doubling down on advertising compliance. The Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) issued a formal warning to online gambling companies regarding rules for bonuses, rewards, and prizes. The communication follows queries from operators and complaints from consumer associations.

Since 2019, the Italian market has been governed by the Dignity Decree, which is enforced by the communications regulator, AGCOM. This decree implemented a blanket ban on gambling advertising and sports sponsorships. The ADM's latest guidance clarifies that while bonuses are permitted, communication about them must be strictly informational.

The Fine Line Between Information and Promotion

Operators are only allowed to describe the existence and mechanics of bonuses in a neutral, factual manner. Any messaging that includes “promotional emphasis” or otherwise incentivizes gambling is strictly prohibited. This clarification is crucial for the 52 licensees operating under Italy's new remote gambling framework, which was launched in November 2025.

“The current framework has inadvertently strengthened the black market by limiting the visibility of licensed brands.” - Roberto Alesse, ADM Director General

The future of the Dignity Decree remains a topic of political debate. In May, AGCOM launched a review of the rules, acknowledging a lack of clarity. The government is expected to revisit the advertising ban after completing its reorganization of the land-based sector by the end of 2026.

Ontario iGaming Market Shows Steady Growth in May

Across the Atlantic, the regulated market in Canada continues to expand. iGaming Ontario reported that total online gaming wagers reached CA$9.5 billion in May, a 2% increase from the previous month. Non-adjusted gross gaming revenue (NAGGR) also grew by 2% to CA$413.1 million.

The online casino wagers segment remains the dominant force, accounting for 88% of all bets. Sports betting saw a slight decline, which is typical for the season, while peer-to-peer poker experienced a modest increase.

Ontario May 2026 Market Performance

In a move to bolster responsible gaming, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) introduced a new measure in June. This rule requires all online players under the age of 25 to set mandatory deposit limits, enhancing protections for younger consumers.