The comment on pegging to SQ/NH was to illustrate how the programme differs from other *A partners. Doesn't make it moot just because you disagree.

Comparison exists to allow travelers to make informed decisions. The Zhong Dian is the fact that there is such promo campaigns is ongoing is evidence that people are indeed comparing, and perhaps favoring towards competition (whether is external competition with Oneworld/skyteam or internally with Star).

NH AMC if timed strategically can last 24 months.
BR also competes internally with other StarAlliance airlines for routings between SEA and US/EU. They do have competitive fares on certain routes. Nothing is stopping them from competing on membership programmes too.