SBC Summit Rio achieves 200% growth in latest edition

SBC Summit Rio successfully wrapped up last month, with attendance surging by 200% at its latest edition. The event, which marked the first major industry gathering since Brazil’s gaming market became fully regulated on January 1, 2025, drew 12,000 attendees to Riocentro, Latin America’s largest convention center.

The expo featured over 400 exhibitors and sponsors across 30,000 square meters. C-level executives and senior decision-makers made up 42% of attendees, turning the summit into a key business platform. All operators currently licensed in Brazil were present.

"Since January 1st, we have had a fully regulated market, making this the first major event in Brazil under the new framework,” Galera Bet CEO Marcos Sabia said. “This is a key reason to be here, combined with the great quality of events at SBC.” 

"Building relationships among all participants is why we're here, and SBC fosters this kind of energy and opportunities—not just at the booths but throughout all the events we experience during our time here," he added.

Sean Telford, Head of Operations at KTO, also emphasized the convenience of having all key suppliers and partners in one place. “Bringing the entire industry or all the suppliers together is quite challenging, so for us, having everyone we need to talk to in one place allows us to strengthen relationships in person, which is obviously extremely important to us," he said.

The conference program ran across four stages and a workshop room, offering insights into regulation, compliance, and market opportunities. Highlights included a keynote from Brazilian football legend Bebeto and sessions featuring Senator Irajá Abreu and Ministry of Finance officials Carolina Yumi and Daniela Olimpio.

Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, said: "This edition cemented SBC Summit Rio as the defining event for Brazil's gaming industry. The caliber of decision-makers in attendance, and the quality of conversations taking place proved that this event is no longer just about opportunity. We've created a platform where business gets done, connections are made, and the industry moves forward together."

The 2025 edition introduced several new initiatives. The Affiliate Leaders Summit helped operators navigate new promotional rules and refine their affiliate strategies. The Influencer Academy, in partnership with local agency Propane, trained influencers, operators, and affiliates on the complexities of gambling promotion in Brazil’s regulated market. The Payment Expert Summit focused on Brazil’s payment ecosystem, offering insights into KYC processes, fraud prevention, and local payment preferences.

SBC Summit Rio also enhanced the attendee experience with a Food Festival Zone. Nearly 30 food trucks offered complimentary meals and drinks to Full Access Pass holders, operators, and affiliates, making networking breaks more convenient and enjoyable.

The event closed with THE INFINITY Rio, an exclusive party headlined by DJ Afrojack and Brazilian duo Dubdogz. Held just before Rio’s carnival, the party blended entertainment with networking on a grand scale.

Carolina Yumi de Souza from the Ministry of Finance, who spoke at the event, highlighted its importance for the entire ecosystem. "The occurrence of this event, with the number of people and companies present, is very important in demonstrating the trust that regulation has brought to the market and the confidence in the functioning of institutions in Brazil," she said.

SBC Summit Rio will return to Riocentro from March 3 to 5, 2026.