A 20-year-old woman from Québec, Canada, has drawn public attention after making an unusual decision following a lottery win.
Brenda Aubin-Vega won the top prize of Gagnant à Vie, a scratch-off lottery game operated by Loto-Québec. The prize offered her two options: receive C$1 million as a one-time lump sum, or accept C$1,000 per week for the rest of her life.
According to Loto-Québec’s official press release, Aubin-Vega chose the weekly payments.
The decision surprised many observers, as most lottery winners typically opt for immediate cash. The weekly option provides a guaranteed income of C$52,000 per year, paid regularly, but without access to a large upfront sum.
In statements released by the lottery operator, Aubin-Vega said the steady income would help her plan long-term goals, including housing, without the pressure of managing a large amount of money at once.
Financial experts note that such choices involve trade-offs. While lifetime payments can exceed the lump sum over several decades, their real value depends on lifespan, inflation, and personal financial needs. The lump-sum option, on the other hand, offers liquidity and flexibility but carries higher risk if poorly managed.
The case has since sparked online debate, with many weighing the benefits of guaranteed cash flow against the appeal of instant wealth.
