Brazil: Senator Girão Files TCU Complaint Calling Caixa’s Bet a Mockery

Brazil.– October 31, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com Brazilian Senator Eduardo Girão has filed a formal petition with the Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) to halt Caixa Econômica Federal’s plan to launch its own betting platform. He called the initiative “a mockery of the Brazilian people” and demanded a public audit of funds linked to the gaming industry.

Overview

Speaking in the Senate, Girão argued that a state-owned bank must not engage in activities that encourage gambling among low-income citizens. He cited cases of Bolsa Família beneficiaries spending part of their aid money on online bets, describing it as a moral and social risk.

Details / Context

The senator referred to data from the National Confederation of Commerce showing that over BRL 103 billion left retail circulation in 2024 toward betting operators, and more than BRL 3 billion per month flowed through Pix transactions from social program beneficiaries. He warned that a state-run “Caixa Bet” could exacerbate money-laundering and ethical concerns.

Future Outlook

The TCU submission may force a review of public projects related to gambling. With Brazil’s regulation still in progress, the debate centers on whether the State should act as operator or only as regulator. Experts stress that transparency will define the credibility of the entire model.

Specific Topics

  • Regulation: public vs. private roles under the new law.
  • Responsible Gaming: risks for low-income players.
  • Institutional Integrity: the TCU may set new limits on state involvement.

🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com

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