FecomercioSP: São Paulo bettors spend low but recurrently
The online betting sector in Brazil continues to grow, but the latest X-ray prepared by FecomercioSP introduces an important nuance about the actual behavior of players in São Paulo. The survey by the Federation of Trade in Goods, Services and Tourism of the state of São Paulo found that 54 percent of bettors in the region spend less than 50 reais per month, equivalent to about 10 dollars.
This low average coexists with growing social concern. The financial participation of bettors began to compete with other basic consumption, and the entity detected that one in four Paulistanos claims they would save the money spent on bets if they did not use the platforms. The percentage rose from 19 percent in 2024 to 26 percent in 2026, a sign of the change in social perception of the activity.
Betting to supplement income
The survey adds another data point that strains the entertainment discourse defended by the industry. 35 percent of Paulistanos bet with the stated goal of quickly increasing household income, a motivation incompatible with responsible gambling principles. The figure grew strongly since the regulation of the segment in 2024 and reflects the economic pressure on Brazilian households.
FecomercioSP cross-referenced these numbers with its own economic indicators. The indebtedness of Paulistano families climbed to 72.9 percent in April, the highest record since 2023. And although the average participation in betting does not exceed the equivalent of 50 reais per month for most of the group, the aggregated effect on the wallet becomes significant when added to utility bills, food, and revolving credit.
A growing industry, a reacting society
The data also shows that the sector continues to expand. Online betting platforms based in the capital of São Paulo billed 1.4 billion reais in February 2026 and grew 21 percent at the beginning of the year, according to FecomercioSP's own services monitor based on information from the municipal Treasury Department. The activity is consolidating as one of the fastest-growing in the state.
This growth is strained by the new social perspective. The increase in Paulistanos who recognize that they would prefer to save that money anticipates a social demand for stricter rules, aligned with the direction promoted by the federal government and with the debate in Congress on advertising, credit, and responsible gambling. The SPA and the Central Bank are moving in parallel with regulations that limit the use of Pix Crédito and tighten the oversight of operators.
The picture painted by FecomercioSP confirms that Brazil enters the 2026 World Cup with a massive betting market, fragmented into low but recurrent expenses, and with growing regulatory concern. Latin America is closely watching the case, especially Argentina, Colombia, and Peru, where player behavior and the balance between business growth and consumer protection also set the agenda.
Tags: Brazil, Sao Paulo, FecomercioSP, online betting Brazil, indebtedness Brazil