meta_id 3125814

On May 5, 2026, the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) published Resolution BCB No. 561/2026 in the Official Gazette of the Union (DOU), establishing new regulatory requirements for international payment and transfer services (eFX) and creating specific controls for online betting transactions. The resolution introduces code 34045 for classifying gaming and betting transactions, effective from October 1, 2026. This measure aims to enhance traceability of foreign currency flows directed to fixed-odds betting platforms. The regulation implements several restrictions on digital transactions: purchases of goods and services through digital payment solutions without e-commerce integration are limited to US$10, as are transfers related to investments in financial and securities markets. The resolution prohibits the use of virtual assets (cryptoassets) in these transactions. Funds sent by users to eFX providers must be deposited through accounts held in the user's own name via bank slip or equivalent payment instruments, limited to R$1,000 with no reloading permitted. Payment or receipt between eFX service providers and foreign counterparts must occur exclusively through foreign exchange or Brazilian real accounts of non-residents. The regulation also prohibits offsetting of amounts received and delivered by service providers. Institutions providing eFX services must register this modality in the Unicad System by October 30, 2026. Providers not authorized as payment institutions (electronic money issuers or acquirers) must request Central Bank authorization by May 2027, with failure to obtain authorization resulting in cessation of activities. The resolution updates Annex V of BCB Resolution No. 277/2022. **Reference:** Central Bank of Brazil Resolution BCB No. 561/2026, Official Gazette of the Union (DOU), May 5, 2026.