Interesting development. I will probably drop down to Gold for 2025 and then examine whether I actually need a higher status (vs. just buying first/comfort at booking).

I still believe there there will be an "unlimited" option added to the Reserve card for SC visits (perhaps 50% off a membership for Reserve Card holders), and possibly to The Platinum Card as well, as I do not think either DL or Amex want to see heavy users dropping their premium cards if they have to pay for a membership.

The 2,500 MQD "headstart" for holding a card also suggests that bonuses could come back as a means meet revenue targets from Amex. Very easy to implement promos or reinstitute permanent MQD bonuses based on spend.

All-in all, it does seem like DL is heading where it needs to, namely, drastically reducing the elite ranks at the top to preserve value in the program, while recognizing the expectations/loyalty associated with existing rollover MQMs. I am 175,000 miles away from million mile status--with Silver as the reward, I'd never consider that a reason to remain loyal (I actually didn't know my lifetime balance until today), but I'd actually consider it one going forward.