Thus far the merger between SPG and MR has provided the same benefit level (Gold / Platinum) in both programs provided your are at that level in one of them. Is this going to continue into the future?

I ask because it is much easier to gain Gold status with SPG than with Marriott.

Is there a chance that they will "level" the field in 2018 to get the programs in sync? 50 nights with Marriott gets you gold, while 50 nights with SPG gets you platinum.