If only there was a different forum to discuss the actual merger in and compare product and speculate on changes... Oh, wait..
I made Gold with actual BIS miles this year; probably going to buy back up to Chairman for 2014. The upgrade ratio (even with lower BIS) and the Envoy certs make it worth it to me. And Emerald status in OneWorld will be nice on the trip I'm probably doing to Australia probably on Qantas. I'm assuming no benefits in 2014 on AA beyond club access with US Club card and those that Emerald status would bring.