Even though I have somehow made MR Platinum for 3-4 years now, I don't expect that to continue (Gold hopefully, Platinum is a stretch for me). So, I've thought a lot about whether the 40k to maintain Platinum is worth it. Even though for most people, it probably isn't given the lack of huge differentiation between Marriott's Gold and Platinum levels, the UA status actually is the deciding factor for me, since I have zero status and Silver (though not super meaningful) has enough benefits (Econ + 24 hours prior, including for companion, and free baggage) is sufficient to make it worth it for me. Hopefully I'll continue my Platinum streak but when I fail to and they don't comp it, I'd likely spend the points; hopefully, they'll still have a partnership then!