For me, on balance, the effects will be slightly negative....although still pretty much a wash, considering the new 50% plat bonus.

Since the majority of my points stays are now going to be at "8"s, a few questions come to mind.

1.) Are popular hotels going to tighten up their poinyd availability inventory prior to January 15 so as to thwart those seeking to "cash out" their points early?

2.) What about the Euro-hopper awards? Are they going to exclude the 8s and/or increase the point requirement? Or will they just drop them entirely?

3.) Can we start a pool on how many more properties schlep into the 8 category? Can we start a pool on which'll be the first? My money's on Grosvenor House. You with me on this one, Sharon?