Optimization vs. Diversification - Which CC should I use?
 

So, I've been thinking something over recently and would like some input -

Which is better - ALWAYS using the CC that gives you the maximum bonus in every situation, or diversifying your spend across several CC, even if sometimes you use a CC that doesn't give you the best possible bonus in that store?

What does everyone else do? What is your rationale?

Optimize because why would I not? I'm in this for me, not the banks.

I'm not getting 1% cash back like some sort of peasant.

Since this was moved out of the MS forum, I will specify that I was asking from an MS perspective -
Is it better to risk turning over CL multiple times a month to get the best bonus, or is it better to diversify the MS spend, even if you're not getting the best bonus possible?

Your government says diversity is good. Mix up that spending a bit so your pattern of spend is not too obvious. Remember - the nail that sticks up is the one that gets hit by the hammer. Trade off efficiency for stealth as the banks like to see "normal" spend. Make your normal look more like the normal they expect to see. :cool:

I've always gone for diversification.

I put some spend on every bank's credit card even if I don't value the points. At my level of spend, sign up bonuses are much more lucrative and I want banks to keep approving me for more cards.

But from a MF spend perspectively, 2% cashback or less ain't just worth it. After fees and stuff you end up with 1.0-1.5% effective return. Need to do a lot of volume to roll in some real money...