I calculated that 27% of an ex-MEX fare I bought was not included in the calculation of nTPs. Coupled with the weaker dollar, that meant that 1800 USD only earned 1022 tier points. Meaning a net spend close to $35k USD (approx 26k) [didn't factor in any cabin bonus] to get to gold. Absurd and beyond reality considering that the only route is spend.

Same flights would be about 25% of the way to Emerald on Finnair.

So yes, very concious of what I spend now