Caesars Big Brazil to secure sports betting and online gaming licence

Lea Hogg July 27, 2024

Big Brazil, the proprietor of the renowned Caesars Sportsbook brand in Brazil, is working to secure a federal licence for operating sports betting and online gaming in the country. This move places Big Brazil among a growing list of companies seeking federal licensing through the Ministry of Finance’s Betting Management System (Sigap). The listing signifies that Big Brazil has fulfilled all prerequisites to seek authorization for operating in Brazil’s burgeoning sports betting and iGaming market.

As a member of the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL), Big Brazil exemplifies the commitment of companies already legally operating in Brazil. These companies are in the process of regularization, adhering to the rules set forth by the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA). Big Brazil is among five operators whose applications are currently listed in Sigap.

ANJL’s president, Plínio Lemos Jorge, noted that numerous betting companies have initiated their federal license applications. However, these processes are still in progress. To be listed on Sigap, a betting house must submit a plethora of documents and satisfy a comprehensive list of regulator-demanded requirements. Consequently, many companies are yet to appear in the system despite having initiated the process.

According to SPA/MF Ordinance 827, which governs the procedures for authorization applications, the analysis of applications can take up to 180 days. However, companies applying by August 20 of this year can expect a response from the Ministry of Finance by the end of the year. The sector remains optimistic that many operators will meet this deadline.

Big Brazil’s Proof of Concept

In anticipation of the federal licence, Big Brazil has already executed a Proof of Concept (PoC) to operate sports betting and online gaming in the State of Rio de Janeiro. The company is awaiting the assessment result to proceed with the accreditation process with Loterj and represent the global casino industry giant based in Las Vegas, USA.

André Feldman, CEO of Big Brazil, expressed excitement about the approval of BiG Brazil/Caesars in the PoC of their platform. The company plans to launch the Caesars Sportsbook brand in the country, starting with Rio de Janeiro. With a population exceeding 16 million, Rio de Janeiro offers greater potential than several European countries of similar population size.

The National Association of Games and Lotteries, launched in March 2023, advocates for its members, the sector, and responsible and honest gaming. It promotes sports, bet security, and contributes to the country’s economic development. Partners include galera.bet/Playtech, Big Brazil, F12, PagBet, Betnacional, Mr. Jack, Parimatch, BetFast, Aposta Ganha, Liderança Capitalização, Zro. Bank, Propane, Paag, Clear Sale, BetBox tv, StarsPay, and WEpayments.