Of course, the fact that the tie to the calendar year has been removed would also seem to indicate that the period for which status is given will be shorter.
Previously, you would have it for the rest of your current year, and all of the next year (plus a buffer of 3 months to March of year+2). Now,
your current year ends immediately when you achieve the new status level, and your "next year" of higher status starts immediately - even though you may have to wait weeks for the card to be sent out!!!
Unless anyone has seen any statement showing that status, once earned, is valid for more than a year???
