This can work in both directions for them. I expect many to delay their purchases until 9 March. Like me. This can result in higher fees as the departure dates are closer and the cheaper classes will be booked. On the other hand you have people, also like me, that now book elsewhere. I use SAS with AirBaltic frequently with the status match from AY Platinum.

Not sure if they understand the impact of this delay in activating Avios themselves. I think this will result in less revenue for AY. They seems to count on delayed revenue, which can also be true. On the other hand you will have people that have seen the competition and will keep on using it. I know people that did already switch. Some in combination with AMEX.