The INSS is responsible for paying social benefits to approximately 40 million Brazilians every month. Many of these beneficiaries are retirees who, although they do not face the same food difficulties as those who receive ‘Bolsa Família’, still have to manage a limited budget. Thus, any excessive spending can have significant consequences for their financial stability.

For many retirees, their monthly income is essential to cover basic expenses such as food and education for their grandchildren. Stefanutto emphasizes that, for those who earn an average of R$1,900 (US$ 330), a significant allocation of resources to gambling can be harmful.

In this sense, it is crucial to understand whether these expenses compromise the financial health of beneficiaries and to develop appropriate strategies to mitigate risks.

In light of this scenario, the INSS intends not only to observe the immediate effects, but also to consider awareness and financial education campaigns for its audience. This may include everything from the production of educational materials to the organization of workshops focused on personal financial management.

Stefanutto seeks to better understand the spending profile of beneficiaries and, to this end, maintains contact with institutions such as the Central Bank and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). The idea is to explore in more depth the financial behavior and impacts of sports betting on vulnerable populations served by the INSS.

These efforts aim not only to assess the current situation, but also to form solid foundations for preventive policies. This may include measures such as spending restrictions, financial counseling and awareness-raising actions that help beneficiaries better manage their resources.

The possibility that a portion of the resources intended for subsistence are used in risky ways remains under analysis. The INSS is committed to understanding how this phenomenon may affect the long-term economic security of the populations that depend on its benefits.

Although a definitive solution is not yet available, Stefanutto and his team are working to ensure that the financial resources of INSS beneficiaries are used in a way that guarantees their well-being and security, thus minimizing the impact of betting on family budgets.

Source: GMB