I called RBC last night to complain about the BA devaluation of short-haul rewards just two weeks into me having the card. They were understanding, but didn't offer any compensation (which I get, since they don't control BA). They said that I could convert to a RBC rewards card just to keep the balance I obtained, get a pro rata refund (about $150) and get the 15k Avios just for signing up the card. So it's not a total loss. I just didn't want to feel the need to spend $9k on this card for points that are now a lot less useful for me (would rather spend that on SPG or regular Avion).

Just a fyi if others are kicking themselves for getting this card.