GMB - How do you evaluate the arrival of SBC in Brazil and BetWinner's participation in the first edition of the event?
Gustavo Hiroshi - From the experience with SBC, where I've been to several events, it's very good. I think it's a pity that it's small. I believe it lacked a bit of space, but it was evident that people showed strength in this first edition. Everyone is in the corridors, and the whole of Brazil is here. Surely, it's an event that will grow, and you can bet that next year SBC will be huge. It was very good, and people gave positive feedback about being in Rio de Janeiro.
Speaking of Brazil, how is BetWinner's current presence in the Brazilian market?
It's very good. Besides, we have Roberto Carlos as our ambassador for almost three years now. He is a legend of Brazilian and international football, bringing a lot of credibility to the business. We are well established in Brazil and will continue in the country and have more investments. We are somewhat concerned about the changes that will come this year, but we are prepared and will apply for a license.
Following the information that has already been released and Law 14,790 itself, will it be easy for BetWinner to implement the requirements indicated by the Ministry of Finance?
No. It will be difficult because we are a global company, and it will not always be beneficial to bring the operation to Brazil and comply with everything. In some cases, we will stand our ground and may even stay out a bit. But the investment is there, and we want to enter 100%, but it will have to be strategic. We have doubts, and that's normal for everyone. In the end, it may not be so difficult after all.
Is BetWinner wanting to show its strength more and more?
We operate a bit differently. We don't buy as much media as other players, but we are well and want to better understand the Brazilian market, which is fantastic. Let's see how everything will be formalized to then start with everything. I hope it will be beneficial for BetWinner.
Have you also been working with affiliates?
Always, because that's our core and what we do most. We work with affiliates and influencers. We have a presence on TV, with our ambassador, but it's not our strong suit. With the changes that will come with the definitive implementation of regulation, we already have a plan in place to attack from all angles.
Will investments come?
They will come. It's good for the country, which will collect taxes, and this will be good for everyone. It should be done quickly but without rushing too much so that the process itself helps the government understand how the operator works, so that we have a healthy market for everyone.
In the same way that BetWinner was implemented, consistently and analyzing every step? Exactly. We have been in Brazil for almost six years and have a huge expansion plan, including in terms of human resources. We have offices in other jurisdictions and are analyzing the tax issue to make strategic decisions in this regard. We cannot fail to consider São Paulo, where it could be interesting to have a unit to run the business. We already have an agency in the city that helps us with our demands.
Will BetWinner participate in BiS SiGMA, in São Paulo?
Yes, we already have everything closed and are preparing for the event. Our presence is guaranteed at the fair, where we will distribute some gifts and get even closer to the market. It's important to be present at a show like BiS SiGMA, and we will always be there.
Source: Exclusive GMB
