Brazilian culture, superstition, gambling, and a love for the game in an exclusive conversation with Thomas Carvalhaes

In a new interview from the renowned online meeting series ‘G&M 1on1,’ we spoke with Thomas Carvalhaes, the Regional Director for Brazil and Latin America at Hero Gaming. With a focus on a massive market that is expected to boom in the near future, the executive discussed the progress of gambling regulation in Brazil, the preferences of local players, the growth of the Amuletobet brand, and his experience traveling the world thanks to being in a fascinating industry.

Our protagonist, Thomas Carvalhaes, was born, raised, and educated in Ouro Fino, a small Brazilian municipality in the state of Minas Gerais. There, he obtained a teaching degree in Portuguese and English. Determined, persistent, curious, Thomas reveals himself in the conversation as an intelligent man with values, convictions, initiative, and always open to new knowledge. That’s why he says he’s learning Spanish and commits to having the dialogue in that language “as a personal challenge.”

Similarly, the Regional Director for Brazil and Latin America at Hero Gaming believes that the dynamism of the gaming sector means an executive must dedicate a lot of time, attention, and energy to their roles. Therefore, he understands the importance of having some hobbies to relax and create a balance between personal and professional life. He mentions that he enjoys running, showcasing his skills in the FIFA video game, and traveling to discover new countries and cultures. In this regard, he comments that he has visited many places, a consequence of his involvement in this industry. At the age of 22, he moved to South Africa to work as a volunteer for an NGO, teaching languages and music in communities. The planned three-month stay turned into ten years!

Among the various topics addressed in the seminar, the echoes of the elections and the balance between the Executive Power led by Lula da Silva and the Legislative Power, with a strong influence from Jair Bolsonaro’s allies, were discussed. Other topics included the possibilities of action after December 12, when the deadline for the regulation of sports betting expires; the different gaming verticals, in addition to betting; the difference between local and international operators; and future challenges.

His involvement in the gaming industry began in 2011 in that country at Belle Rock Entertainment. Later, in Latin America, he worked for Omni Slots Affiliates, Patagonia Entertainment, LeoVegas, until joining Hero Gaming in September 2020. Focusing on his current intense work and the culture of Brazil, he emphasizes that understanding the profile of the Brazilian user is essential to attract their attention. He also points out that this is a highly superstitious culture. These characteristics led to the creation and launch of the Amuletobet brand, a rapidly growing sports betting site that is becoming a true amulet for Brazilian players. Although he has to combine sports betting with a good variety of other games, offering products that require a bit of luck and superstition is crucial, Carvalhaes concludes