It seem Citi thank you points are meh compared to chase Ultimate reward points. The banks are obviously compensating AA very well for the wholesale purchase of points.

Citi is obviously looking to pull , canibalize market share from chase. The spend on flights for Explat seems to approach what would have been gotten concierge Key before.beforeThe heck with loyalty. All the value propositions and arbitrage opportunity of year ago are gone.

If top tier status is so important to you buy I fare basis international business class and discounted F domestic
If your in the front of the bus what difference does. Status make.
I am lifetime plat ( two. Million miler) no status on Delta and I bought Delta for travel over new years.
Why?
Non stop( AA was a connection)
better schedule
And I bought comfort plus.
Yeah I'll have to pay to check two bags , I'll learn to deal with it.