I've been looking at this type of transfer for some time but just can't get my head around it. I know everyone has different redemption situations, but with my 100,000 AP points I just need another 50,000 points (easy with an Amex transfer) and I have myself a business mini-RTW on Star Alliance with two stopovers. Granted I'd rather return to Toronto in a business CX seat but having experienced business Eva Air TPE-YYZ I was thoroughly impressed. Heck, I would even work my way home trying out ANA or Asiana if the surcharge isn't too high.

Is this type of conversion a good thing any more?

American/US Air chart:

Between North America* and Japan or Korea

Business
Low: 110,000

Between North America* and China or Hong Kong

Business
Low: 110,000