Marriott Platinum is well worth the annual chase. IHG Spire definitely not.

Having said that, it’s umportant to recognise the distinction between the two. IHG is a points play and provides great value for that. But no elite breakfast, seldom lounge access.

Last year I had 43 paid nights at Marriott costing $7,000 and received 260,000 points that I redeem at 1c so they’re worth $2,600.
I also stayed 22 paid nights with IHG costing $2,200 and received 160,000 points that redeem at 0.7c so they’re worth $1,100

The takeaways here? Well IHG stays are both cheaper and more utilitarian but the points do pile up faster and work out a better rebate per $ spent. Really, honestly, it depends what you want. I reckon Marriott provides better overall value, guaranteed breakfast, lounge and late checkouts, but there’s no denying the superiority of IHGs 50% rebate!