More reward is not always more value
Higher rewards can increase participation, but they can also attract users whose primary motivation is the incentive rather than the product, offer or brand relationship.
When reward levels rise beyond sustainable value, the ecosystem can see poorer retention, weaker advertiser outcomes and higher pressure on margins.
The hidden cost curve
Unsustainable rewards often create costs that appear later: lower quality cohorts, increased fraud pressure, partner dissatisfaction and reduced flexibility for future campaigns.
The right floor is not universal. It depends on product category, geography, user intent, conversion value and the time horizon used to measure quality.
Operational takeaway
Reward levels should be tested and monitored like any other economic lever. Sustainable systems keep enough incentive to motivate action while protecting long-term partner and platform value.