Thousands of companies, from large chains to small local businesses, are preparing to participate in the 15th edition of Buen Fin, the most anticipated weekend of the year. Millions of people wait for these dates to take advantage of discounts, interest-free months and special promotions. In Mexico City alone, the National Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CANACO) estimates the “historic” economic impact at more than 65 thousand million pesos. But behind the enthusiasm for consumption there is also a risk: falling into a financial trap if you do not act strategically.
Personal finance expert Liliana Zamacona explains to EL PAÍS that buen fin should not be understood as an invitation to buy more, but rather as an opportunity to reflect on the relationship with money and consumption. “Every year we see people turning to debt to support a lifestyle they can’t afford” or to make impromptu purchases, he warns. Zamacona emphasizes that context belies financial wisdom: “The system is for you. You’re not going to walk into a store and hear a reminder to save for your retirement. Everything is designed so you can buy.”
When is Buen Fin: Participating stores and withdrawals
The official Buen Vin offers run from November 13 to 17, although some companies have started them in advance. On the official website of the program, you can find participating companies, such as Palacio de Hierro, Liverpool, Inditex, H&M, and others.
In addition to the shows, the Buen Fin 2025 draw returns this year, organized by the Tax Administration Service (SAT) and the Ministry of Economy, which seeks to encourage official purchases and the use of electronic payment methods. Those who make purchases using credit or debit cards automatically participate. The drawing, which will take place on December 5 at 12:00 p.m., will distribute more than P500 million in prizes, including the main prize of P250,000 for consumers and others for the winning companies.
How to recognize a real offer
Zamacona warns that the common practice is for stores and companies to gradually raise prices so that the Buen Vin discount is no longer real. Therefore, before purchasing, it is recommended to compare prices in different stores and platforms. The Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) has this tool Who is in the pricesWhich allows you to know the cost history of thousands of products and discover whether the discounts are real or apparent.
It is also important to check if the store adheres to the official program. Participating companies usually display the Buen Fin logo and must respect the terms of sale they present to the public. If any violation is detected, consumers can file a complaint with Profeco or go to the service units installed during the campaign.
Personal finance tips
Before taking advantage of any Buen Fin offer, the expert recommends conducting a personal financial diagnosis. This exercise consists of reviewing income, debts, fixed expenses, and small daily expenses or “ant expenses.”
Once this scenario is clear, the next step is to create an action plan for the good ending. This involves identifying all of your fixed annual expenses — insurance, tuition, property taxes, or family celebrations — to determine how much money you actually have available to take advantage of deductions.
Based on this information, Zamacona explains, a specific budget for purchases is prepared. “Many people have already committed to months of interest-free income and don’t know it. Any new purchase should fit within a realistic monthly limit,” he warns.
But above all, he recommends using a personal filter: ask yourself if you really need it. “This impulse you feel (to buy) is not a divine sign, it is dopamine,” he says sarcastically. His most compelling advice is simple: Use the bonus to pay off debt before you buy, or to invest.
“Every conscious financial decision is an affirmation of freedom,” the specialist concludes. “No one will take care of your money like you do.”
About The Author
