Confusion has emerged across Brazilian and iGaming media ranks regarding the leadership succession of the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), the federal authority overseeing Brazil’s regulated gambling market.
On Wednesday (11 February), several news outlets – including MSN, Diário de São Paulo and Tribuna – reported that the SPA had elected Deputy Secretary Daniele Correa Cardoso to serve as the new Secretary.
The reports state that Cardoso will succeed Regis Dudena, who in January accepted a new role as Secretary of Economic Reforms (SRE) within the Ministry of Finance.
Coverage of the reported appointment referenced Cardoso’s role in leading responsible gambling initiatives across Brazil’s Bets online regime, which formally launched on 1 January 2025.
Quotes attributed to Cardoso stated: “The SPA’s priorities remain focused on consumer protection and the popular economy. We have a regulatory agenda for 2025–2026 and another for 2026–2027, including public consultations.”
“The priority is the continuation of our work in combating the illegal market, monitoring and inspection, preventing fraud and money laundering, and promoting responsible play.”
However, at the time of writing, neither the SPA nor the Ministry of Finance has formally confirmed Cardoso’s promotion to the permanent leadership of the Secretariat. Furthermore, as stand no official announcement has been published on the portals of either institution.
In dialogue with SBC Noticias Brasil, the SPA did not confirm a definitive appointment and instead referenced Cardoso’s existing duties: “To designate DANIELE CORREA CARDOSO… to serve as the eventual substitute for the Executive Commissioned Position of Secretary of Prizes and Bets… during the absences, legal or regulatory impediments of the incumbent and in the event of vacancy of the position,” reads an ordinance from September 2025.
No new leadership but priorities clear
Further developments followed this morning, as the Ministry of Finance published the SPA’s Regulatory Agenda for 2026–2027. The document, dated 13 February and authorised by Cardoso in her capacity as Acting Secretary of Prizes and Bets, outlines a two-year plan to tighten oversight of Brazil’s betting and lottery markets.
Key priorities for 2026 include reviewing operator authorisation procedures, strengthening payment-blocking mechanisms targeting illegal operators, updating affiliate advertising rules and establishing a regulatory framework for physical betting terminals.
The SPA also intends to enhance responsible gambling safeguards by introducing tools enabling bettors to monitor their behaviour through systems integrated with the regulator, alongside upgrades to inspection processes and a clearer sanctions regime to improve transparency and consumer redress.
SBC Noticias Brasil continues to monitor developments regarding the SPA’s leadership structure. At present, it cannot confirm that Cardoso has been formally appointed as permanent Secretary of the Secretariat. This update is published to ensure accurate reporting of Brazil’s regulated online gambling framework.