He might not chase status even when he was SPG elite. He might just simply prefer to stay at SPG properties because SPG was a great program. You might not have much knowledge on SPG which many here would argue it was the best hotel loyalty program before Marriott bought the chain. SPG was truly guest oriented. Such as that if you were for whatever reason being a no show on an award stay (passed the cancellation deadline) and being charged the one day cash rate, you could request SPG to contact the property to reverse the cash rate charge and paid with your pts in the original booking. Not so with Marriott, many properties won’t even tell you what the cash rate would be should you unfortunately became a no show.

SPG used to have a great social media rep presence on FT, that helped many FTers to resolve many issues. I think those who know William would all muss him. I wonder if he is still with HHonor.