The trick still works, Spire AMb untill Feb 2020; and when taking the $200 USD option the points were immediately added to my account. But no e-mail to confirm renewal, no e-certificate so far... maybe I'm still getting the old paper version because iI renewed prior to Feb. 1st. I did notice on the website that the $150 renewal option would only be available untill January 31st, don't know if that was only for my account or in general.
Up untill last year I prefered the 24k renewal option because it was the cheapest. Now that it's gone up to 40k, and the $150 option doesn't gives bonus points anymore but the $200 option does, I consider that as the best "deal", but of course that will depend on how hotels will take advantage of the new $50 or 10k points guarantee loophole.