Denaria has underlined that cash is the "most effective" tool for controlling small everyday expenditures, the so-called "insect expenses", in a scenario of high inflation like the current one.
"Saving does not begin in the account, but at the moment of paying, and the medium with which one pays conditions how much is spent," indicates the platform in a note released on the occasion of World Savings Day, which is commemorated this Saturday, October 31.
The experts consulted by Denaria point out that the main problem with "insect expenses" is "lack of control and lack of planning", which makes it difficult to have a clear view of how much is allocated to these smaller consumptions.
The organization recalls that, according to the study "SPACE 2024" by the European Central Bank (ECB) on payment habits in the euro area, cash was used in 68% of payments of up to five euros, especially in small daily purchases, where spending escapes "more easily" control.
However, the association warns that users still find obstacles to paying in cash, since there are establishments and administrations that "refuse to accept banknotes and coins" and, in addition, there is a legal limit of 1,000 euros that prevents paying in cash for larger transactions.
Since the launch in June 2023 of Denaria's free complaints channel, citizens continue to report cases of businesses and services that refuse cash payment, despite the obligation to accept it.
In relation to the 1,000-euro cap, Denaria maintains that this restriction prevents many households from applying in higher-value purchases, such as an appliance, the repair of a vehicle or a dental treatment, "the same discipline they apply to their daily spending".
"By not being able to do so, they are pushed toward means of payment that separate the purchase from the payment, including installment financing", laments the platform, considering that this can encourage greater indebtedness.
Nevertheless, Denaria does not position itself against digital payments and recognizes that they offer relevant advantages for high-value operations or those carried out at a distance. The entity insists that it declares itself "in favor of the coexistence of all means of payment and of citizens' right to choose how they want to pay".
For this reason, the association calls for strengthening compliance with the obligation to accept cash in shops and services, as well as opening a debate on the possible revision of the 1,000 euro limit for cash payments.