number_6 and Track, thanks for clarifications. While allowing some flexibility in connections, it still looks as though SkyTeam has one of the worst RTW rules. Oneworld and Star seem to be the best choice for RTWs. There seem to lower fares with special airline combos (such as SQ alone, SQ + Virgin, CO+Air India, etc.) but the network footprint is small.
I understand that NW has an RTW that is fairly decent that includes multiple airlines including KLM, Emerites, Jet Airways in India, South African airlines, etc. They allow backtracking within a continent but not between continents (actually it is areas). The fares are based on mileage.
I sure hope SkyTeam introduces a good RTW purchased fare. For now, I will look elsewhere.