Mercado Pago revealed the destination of the money saved by its users

Travel, technology, and family events are among the main destinations for the money that users set aside in "reserves."

An official report from Mercado Pago showed how Argentinians use the savings feature within the app. More than 15 million created categories reveal habits and goals that range from practical to emotional.

What is the "Reserve" feature in Mercado Pago used for?

With the rise in the use of digital wallets as a savings tool, many users choose to set aside money in virtual pockets. Mercado Pago identified that 6 out of 10 people do so to better organize their finances.

The feature allows users to save pesos (and pounds) with a specific goal, and it also generates a daily return by being invested in a mutual fund.

Travel and getaways: the most popular destinations

Among the most frequent categories, travel ranks at the top. Córdoba, Mar del Plata, Bariloche, and Mendoza are the most mentioned local destinations.

Regarding international destinations, the most popular are Brazil and Chile.

Planned spending and meaningful saving

• 60% use "reserves" to organize monthly payments.
• Many set aside money to pay for services or cards on time.
• Reserves are also created for unexpected expenses and personal goals.

Technology purchases: cell phones and consoles at the top

The report also highlights that a large portion of the money is saved to buy technology. The most common categories are:

• New cell phone
• Gaming PC or notebook
• Video game console

Reserves for daily life and family events

Users also use the tool for fixed expenses such as rent, clothing, or university. Important dates such as weddings, 15th birthdays, or graduation parties are also included.

Additionally, more personal goals appear, such as "my purpose," "dreams," or "achieving my independence."

Creativity in naming reserves

Some users choose unconventional names for their savings goals. Among the most striking are:

• "So I don't run out of money"
• "Plan B, C, and D"
• "Manifestanding"
• "The savings lair"
• "To find myself"

These categories reflect a mix of humor, desire, and financial planning.

How to create a "reserve" in Mercado Pago

From the app's main screen, users must go to the "Reserves" section, choose a name, define an amount, and set a goal.

The feature offers two modes:

• Scheduled reserve: allows users to schedule automatic transfers.
• Reserve when spending: sets aside an amount each time a payment is made with QR or money is received.

How much does money in reserves yield?

The money in the account generates an estimated return of 26.2% APR, since it is invested in a mutual fund.

Converted to a month, the return is approximately 2.18%. In May, this value outperformed inflation, which was 1.5% according to INDEC.