Maybe AmEx and certain hotel programs are also experiencing an uptick in transfers of points to airline miles in programs other than AA. The potential cost to those making such backup arrangements (assuming that they can find award space) would be cancel/redeposit fees (especially for carriers on which they do not currently hold status), the risk of orphan or expiring miles if the backup isn't needed, and the cost of checked bag fees, seat fees, lounge access, etc. due to flying a carrier/alliance with which one does not have status.