Hidden in these alluring messages - the NECESSITY to BUY.
Saving by spending is an interesting concept, one which can work for or against you. Powerful advertising can hook people into buying things they don't need or can't afford. It can, in other words, trigger our brains into "needing" stuff we had previously not even considered. A careful shopper can profit from all of the above if they are cautious, if they buy only what they planned to buy and are nor enticed by the "savings" to buy on impulse.
I wouldn't call the above false advertising, not even misleading if you recognize you can't SAVE by BUYING. Saving by buying is an oxymoron. It's a false premise that entices us to spend.
Credit card companies earn a small percentage on every purchase their card is used for. They make even more by charging interest on purchases if you are unable to pay your bill at the end of the month, and that interest rate is often very high. But using a card that in some way rewards you for using it can be worthwhile, and it's kind of nice the day you "use your rewards" at the till, you get your rebate check, or your membership is paid.
I have 3 credit cards that give "rewards". I bank on line and pay for my purchases within days, avoiding credit card debt. Some cards can be paid right at the store. You can even pay 5 seconds after you charge and they don't mind. After all, you just spent your money in their store. You might have made that purchase somewhere else if you didn't have their credit card.
Advertising, sales, rewards, promotions, anything that encourages people to buy products, to try new products, to spend money in a specific store - all of these are expected to be advantageous for the seller. Buyers who shop with their eyes open to the subtle psychological pressure of these "encouragements", who exercise caution and common sense, who are able to avoid getting hooked by the hype, can also benefit. Who doesn't enjoy the satisfaction of getting "the best bang for their buck"!
Very true...
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