Avoids spending reserves (5)
I believe the answer is:
saves
This clue might be a double definition.
'avoids' is the first definition.
(saving is a kind of avoiding)
'spending reserves' is the second definition.
'saves' can be an answer for 'reserves' (I've seen this in another clue). I am unsure of the 'spending' bit.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for saves that I've seen before include "Redeems or hoards" , "Preserves" , "Rescues" .)