FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - American Express Canada application and reward strategies
Old Apr 20, 2018 | 5:19 pm
  #241  
yeunganson
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Join Date: Apr 2005
Programs: Marriott: Lifetime Titanium, Air Canada: Silver, Asiana: Lifetime Diamond+, ANA: former Super Flyers
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On the top of my mind is what the ratio of AMEX MR to the new Stariott (Starwood/Mariott) program would be.

I mean right now 2 AMEX MR = 1 SPG = 3 Marriott points

Post merger, Stariott (Starwood/Marriott ) point base is inflated by 300%. This means 1 old SPG point = 3 Stariott (Starwood/Mariott) points (by one time conversion)

If and a BIG IF, AMEX keep the same ratio as now, 2 AMEX MR = 3 Stariott (Starwood/Marriott ) points

However, we already know the SPG AMEX is being devalued by Aug 1 AND the current US version of Membership Rewards is more unfavorable in SPG transfer. 3.33 US AMEX MR = 1 SPG point = 3 Marriott points.

So it is entirely possible our Canadian Membership Reward program, even if we adopt the US rate will mean a devaluation on how we can earn SPG points (or future Stariott points)

That's why I am thinking if we should just convert all our Membership Rewards to SPG now rather than wait for the devaluation. Yes there maybe a chance that the rate stays the same or even improve. But if the US SPG AMEX leads the way, the probability of a devaluation for us is higher than a windfall.

Finally, is there anything in Membership Rewards worth converting to? I think British Airways and Hilton is the only two left. Aeroplan is zombie program as Air Canada launches its own in 2020. Eithard is in financial trouble...

Any comments on this is welcomed.
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