I share the OP's sentiments, but industry practices are strongly trending in the opposite direction, and the latest wrinkle is to vary the hit in points redemption, seasonally, even day to day, as well. A major entre into this practice is to do it first in points & cash programs. I do not want to come across as an apologist. More like Cassandra, the mythological person who could see the future, but couldn't do anything about it.