Starting April 1, 2025, the Government will introduce a new annual spending cap of €3,000 per merchant for users of the Carlo app—Monaco’s homegrown cashback and loyalty platform. The move is designed not to limit consumer freedom, but to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme while optimising the use of public funds.
Since its launch in 2019, Carlo has become an essential part of the local retail ecosystem, rewarding shoppers with cashback when they support businesses in the Principality. But as the app’s popularity has surged, so too has the level of government support needed to fund the cashback model.
By capping usage per user and per merchant, the government aims to ensure that public funding is spread more equitably among residents, while still incentivising spending within the local economy. The cap is intended to protect the future of the programme, allowing more people to benefit from the rewards system without exhausting available resources.
According to Carlo, fewer than nine percent of users currently exceed the new limit, meaning the vast majority will be unaffected. Those approaching the cap at any particular store will receive in-app notifications alerting them to the remaining balance available at that location.
The Carlo team has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a seamless experience for users and supporting local businesses. As Monaco continues to prioritise innovation and fiscal responsibility, this small adjustment is a strategic step to maintain one of the Principality’s most successful digital initiatives well into the future.
