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Economy

2025 American Express Platinum Card Refresh: $895 Fee & $3,500 in Perks

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

American express platinum Card Sees Major Perk Boost, Higher Annual Fee

Table of Contents

By Archyde News Desk

American Express is considerably enhancing benefits for its Platinum Card, but the premium comes with a steeper annual cost, reflecting an ongoing competition among financial institutions for high-spending clients.

New York, NY – American Express announced ample updates to its Platinum Card portfolio on Thursday, aiming to attract and retain affluent consumers amid increasing competition. The changes include a substantial increase in the annual fee alongside expanded benefits for both consumer and business cardholders.

the New Price Point

The annual fee for both the consumer and business versions of the Platinum Card will rise to $895, a roughly 29% increase from the current $695. This adjustment positions the card at a higher price tier compared to similar premium offerings in the market.

Expanded Benefits Package

Despite the increased cost, American Express is enhancing the value proposition by providing up to $3,500 in annual benefits. These benefits primarily come in the form of statement credits applicable to various purchases. This represents more than double the previous benefit level, according to the company’s proclamation.

Cardholders will now have access to credits for services like Uber, Lululemon, and Oura, in addition to existing benefits relating to hotel stays and streaming services. Business card users will also benefit from new credits applicable to purchases made at Dell Technologies and Adobe.

A Competitive Landscape

This move by American Express comes as other major financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup have recently unveiled new or updated premium cards with similar, enhanced benefits. Industry analysts describe the situation as an “arms race” to capture the spending of the wealthiest Americans. According to Moody’s analytics, consumers in the top 10% of income earners accounted for approximately half of all consumer spending in the second quarter, a level not seen in over three decades.

Notably, American Express and JPMorgan Chase both unveiled their updated offerings in close succession, indicating a direct response to each other’s strategies. American Express publicized its major card refresh in june, shortly before JPMorgan Chase revealed its latest Sapphire Reserve card. JPMorgan followed up with enhancements to hotel perks just days before American Express’s announcement.

navigating The “Coupon Book” Approach

Some cardholders have expressed concern about maximizing benefits, referring to the benefits as a “coupon book” requiring diligent tracking and usage. American Express recognizes this concern and has introduced a new feature within its app designed to simplify the process of accessing and utilizing available credits.

Howard Grosfield, president for U.S. consumer services at American Express, stated the company focused on “making this as easy as it can be for card members to understand, access, and, most importantly, unlock all these great benefits”.

Feature Old Value New Value
Annual Fee (Consumer/Business) $695 $895
Annual Benefits Approximately $1,750 Up to $3,500

Did You Know? The top 10% of income earners now account for roughly half of all consumer spending in the U.S., making them a key target for premium credit card issuers.

Pro Tip: Carefully evaluate your spending habits to determine if the benefits offered by a premium credit card outweigh the annual fee.

Do you believe the increased benefits justify the higher annual fee for the American Express Platinum Card?

How do you think this move by American Express will impact the broader credit card industry?

Understanding Premium credit Card Strategies

The trend of increasing annual fees and expanding benefits among premium credit cards reflects a strategic shift toward catering to a smaller, high-spending customer base.Card issuers are betting that the value provided through benefits will outweigh the cost of the annual fee for these individuals.

This strategy is supported by data showing that affluent consumers are driving a larger share of overall spending.Though, it also poses a risk of alienating price-sensitive customers who may opt for lower-tier cards or alternatives from competing issuers.

Frequently Asked Questions About the American Express Platinum Card

  • What is the new annual fee for the American Express Platinum Card? The annual fee is now $895 for both consumer and business cards.
  • What benefits are included with the updated American Express Platinum Card? The card now offers up to $3,500 in annual benefits,including credits for Uber,lululemon,Oura,Resy,Dell Technologies,and Adobe.
  • Is the American Express Platinum Card worth the annual fee? This depends on your spending habits and whether you can fully utilize the available benefits.
  • How does the American Express Platinum Card compare to other premium credit cards? The card competes with offerings from JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup,each with its own set of benefits and fees.
  • When will the new annual fee take affect? The new fee will apply to existing customers upon their renewal date starting January 2nd.
  • What is American Express doing to help cardholders maximize benefits? American Express has introduced a new app feature to simplify access and usage of available credits.
  • Where can I find more details about the American Express Platinum Card? Visit the American express website for detailed information or contact customer service.



Is the increased annual fee of $895 justified by the $3,500+ in perks for the average traveler?

2025 American Express Platinum Card Refresh: $895 Fee & $3,500 in Perks

The American Express Platinum Card is undergoing a significant refresh for 2025, bringing with it a higher annual fee of $895, but also a substantial boost in perks valued at over $3,500.This update aims to solidify the card’s position as a premium travel and lifestyle rewards programme.Let’s break down the changes and whether the increased cost is justified for your spending habits. This guide will cover the new benefits, how to maximize value, and who this card is best suited for.

The New $895 Annual fee: What’s Driving the Increase?

American Express has consistently enhanced the Platinum Card’s offerings, and the fee increase reflects these additions. The company cites increased value in travel credits, lounge access, and premium concierge services as justification. While a nearly 18% increase is substantial, Amex argues the expanded benefits outweigh the cost for frequent travelers and those who leverage the card’s luxury perks. Consider this a premium investment in your travel and lifestyle, not just a credit card.

Unpacking the $3,500+ in Perks: A Detailed Breakdown

The core of the 2025 refresh lies in the expanded benefits package. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you get for the $895 annual fee:

* Airline Fee Credit: A boosted $350 airline fee credit (up from $200) applicable to incidental fees on a selected qualifying airline each calendar year. This covers things like baggage fees, seat upgrades, and in-flight purchases.

* Hotel Credit: The popular $200 hotel credit (split into $100 increments at Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection properties booked through Amex Travel) remains.

* Digital Entertainment Credit: A $35 monthly digital entertainment credit (totaling $420 annually) continues,covering streaming services like Netflix,Hulu,and Disney+.

* Equinox+ Credit: $300 annual statement credit towards equinox+ membership, providing access to fitness classes and digital content.

* Uber Cash: $200 Uber Cash benefit, split into $35 monthly credits, usable for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders.

* Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts & The Hotel Collection: Access to exclusive benefits at over 2,000 properties worldwide, including room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and late check-out.

* Global Lounge Collection: Arguably the biggest draw, the Platinum Card provides access to:

* Centurion Lounges: Exclusive Amex-operated lounges offering premium food, drinks, and amenities.

* Priority Pass Select: Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide.

* Delta Sky club Access: (When flying Delta) – a significant addition for Delta loyalists.

* Escape Lounges: Access to Escape lounges across the US.

* Concierge Service: 24/7 access to a dedicated concierge team to assist with travel planning, restaurant reservations, event tickets, and more.

* Travel Insurance & Protections: Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage insurance, and car rental loss and damage insurance.

* Purchase Protection & Extended Warranty: Protection against damage or theft for purchases made with the card,plus extended warranty coverage.

Maximizing Your Platinum Card Benefits: Pro Tips

Getting the most out of the Amex Platinum requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to maximize your return:

  1. Choose Your Airline Wisely: Select a qualifying airline for the $350 fee credit that you frequently fly.
  2. Book Hotels through Amex Travel: Leverage the Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection benefits for added value.
  3. Stack Credits: combine the Uber Cash and digital entertainment credits with othre rewards programs for maximum savings.
  4. Utilize the Concierge: Don’t hesitate to use the concierge service for assistance with travel planning and securing hard-to-get reservations.
  5. Understand lounge Access Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific access rules for each lounge network (Centurion, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Club).Delta sky club access requires a delta flight.
  6. Track Your Spending: Monitor your spending to ensure you’re maximizing the credits and benefits.

Who is the 2025 Amex Platinum Card For?

The refreshed Amex platinum Card is best suited for:

* Frequent Travelers: Those who travel multiple times per year and can utilize the airline fee credit, hotel credits, and lounge access.

* Luxury Lifestyle Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate premium experiences and can take advantage of the concierge service and hotel benefits.

* Streaming Service Subscribers: Those who already pay for multiple streaming services will easily offset the annual fee with the digital entertainment credit.

* Delta Air Lines Loyalists: The addition of Delta Sky Club access makes this card particularly attractive to Delta flyers.

* High Spenders: Individuals who can comfortably charge a significant amount of spending to the card to earn valuable Membership Rewards points.

American Express Membership Rewards: Earning & Redemption

Beyond the perks, the amex Platinum

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Economy

Stock Market Today: Live Updates & News 📈

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Fed’s “Risk-Management Cut”: What It Signals for Markets and Your Portfolio in 2025 & Beyond

The Federal Reserve just delivered a rate cut, but don’t mistake it for a green light for runaway optimism. Wednesday’s quarter-point reduction, the first in over a year, wasn’t the start of a swift descent to lower borrowing costs, as Chairman Jerome Powell made abundantly clear. This move, characterized by Powell himself as a “risk-management cut,” signals a far more cautious approach to monetary policy – and a potentially bumpy ride for investors in the months ahead. Understanding the nuances of this decision, and the Fed’s surprisingly hawkish outlook, is crucial for navigating the evolving economic landscape.

Decoding the Fed’s Cautious Approach

The Fed’s decision to lower rates to a range of 4%-4.25% – approved by an 11-1 vote – reflects growing concerns about a slowing economy and a softening labor market. As the Fed’s statement noted, “Job gains have slowed, and the unemployment rate has edged up but remains low.” However, the simultaneous acknowledgement that inflation “has moved up and remains somewhat elevated” paints a complex picture. This isn’t a return to the low-inflation environment of the past decade; it’s a delicate balancing act.

Powell’s emphasis on the “risk-management” aspect is key. The Fed isn’t necessarily reacting to a crisis, but rather proactively insuring against a potential downturn. As Christopher S. Rupkey, chief economist at FWDBONDS, succinctly put it, the Fed “did not hit the panic button.” This suggests a belief that the biggest threat now isn’t runaway inflation, but a more significant economic slowdown triggered by tighter financial conditions.

Winners and Losers in the Initial Aftermath

The market’s immediate reaction was predictably volatile. The Dow Jones Industrial Average managed to close higher, boosted by sectors that benefit from lower rates, such as financials (JPMorgan, American Express) and consumer staples (Walmart). However, the Nasdaq Composite dipped, weighed down by profit-taking in high-flying tech stocks like Nvidia, Oracle, Palantir, and Broadcom. This divergence underscores a crucial point: lower rates don’t automatically translate to gains for everyone.

Interestingly, the small-cap Russell 2000 outperformed, jumping 0.18%. This is because smaller companies are more reliant on variable financing and therefore stand to benefit more directly from reduced borrowing costs. This trend could continue if the economic slowdown intensifies, potentially making small-cap stocks a more attractive investment.

The Tech Sector’s Adjustment

The pullback in tech stocks, despite the rate cut, is a signal that the market is reassessing valuations. The recent surge in AI-related stocks, which drove much of the Nasdaq’s gains this month (up 3.8% month-to-date), may be due for a correction. Investors are likely factoring in the possibility that the era of ultra-low rates, which fueled the tech boom, is over – at least for now.

Looking Ahead: A Hawkish Outlook for 2026

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Fed’s announcement was its relatively hawkish outlook for 2026. While signaling two more rate cuts for the remainder of 2025, officials are currently predicting only one cut in the new year – a slower pace than the market had anticipated. The Fed’s “dot plot,” which reveals individual policymakers’ rate projections, showed a wide range of opinions, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the economic outlook.

This divergence between the Fed’s projections and market expectations suggests potential for further volatility. If the economy proves more resilient than the Fed anticipates, and inflation remains sticky, the central bank may be forced to maintain higher rates for longer, potentially triggering a market correction.

Implications for Investors: Navigating the New Normal

The Fed’s “risk-management cut” isn’t a signal to go all-in on stocks. It’s a reminder that the economic landscape is shifting, and investors need to adjust their strategies accordingly. Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Diversification is Key: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across different asset classes, sectors, and geographies to mitigate risk.
  • Focus on Value: Consider shifting your focus from growth stocks to value stocks – companies that are trading at a discount to their intrinsic value.
  • Monitor the Data: Pay close attention to economic indicators, such as inflation, unemployment, and GDP growth, to gauge the direction of the economy and the Fed’s potential response.
  • Consider Short-Term Bonds: With the Fed signaling a slower pace of rate cuts, short-term bonds may offer a more attractive risk-reward profile than long-term bonds.

“The one rate cut per meeting pace shows they no longer feel tariff-based inflation is a serious threat and that the economic growth slowdown with companies onboarding fewer new employees is increasingly the bigger risk.” – Christopher S. Rupkey, chief economist at FWDBONDS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does a “risk-management cut” mean?
A: It means the Fed lowered rates not because the economy is in crisis, but as a preventative measure to avoid a potential slowdown. It’s an insurance policy against a worsening economic outlook.

Q: Will the Fed continue to cut rates in 2025?
A: The Fed has signaled two more rate cuts for the remainder of the year, but this is subject to change depending on economic conditions. Their outlook for 2026 is even more cautious, predicting only one cut.

Q: How should I adjust my investment portfolio in response to the Fed’s decision?
A: Diversification, a focus on value stocks, and close monitoring of economic data are all important strategies. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to tailor a plan to your specific needs and risk tolerance.

Q: What is the “dot plot” and why is it important?
A: The dot plot is a visual representation of individual Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) members’ projections for future interest rates. It provides insight into the Fed’s collective thinking and can influence market expectations.

The Fed’s recent actions underscore a new era of economic uncertainty. Investors who remain vigilant, adaptable, and focused on long-term fundamentals will be best positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. What are your predictions for the impact of these rate cuts on your portfolio? Share your thoughts in the comments below!


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Economy

Delta and United: Redefining Airline Excellence

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

airlines Pivot to Premium: Delta and United Focus on High-Margin Seating

In a strategic shift, major U.S. airlines are increasingly prioritizing their premium cabin offerings, revamping seating options and introducing tiered experiences to capture higher-spending customers. This focus on “premiumization” is proving to be a lucrative strategy, with Delta, the only major U.S.airline with a stock gain this year, leading the charge.

Delta is experimenting with segmenting its premium cabins, a tactic it has successfully applied to its main cabin offerings. The airline’s president, Glen Hauenstein, noted on a recent earnings call that premium services have been a significant driver of expanding margins. “Premium has certainly been where our margins have continued to expand,” he stated, emphasizing a commitment to enhanced service and greater segmentation for these customers. Hauenstein believes that the segmentation strategies perfected in the main cabin will serve as a blueprint for all premium cabins moving forward, acknowledging that traveler needs vary.

United Airlines is also enhancing its premium experience. The carrier recently unveiled an updated Polaris class, its top-tier offering for long-haul flights, and has expanded its dedicated lounges. Andrew Nocella, United’s chief commercial officer, sees considerable potential for growth in premium economy, the segment situated between business class and economy. He described it as a cabin “generating very good returns” and one the airline intends to “lean more into going forward.”

Nocella also hinted at further segmentation within the front of the cabin,suggesting that not all passengers desire the “full experience.” He indicated plans to “continue to diversify our revenue base and segment it in the appropriate way.”

While both Delta and United are keenly focused on premium markets,a competitive rivalry persists. When questioned about Delta’s new routes to Hong Kong from Los Angeles and United’s home hub in Chicago – a city pair already served by United – United CEO Scott Kirby dismissed the competition. “We fly 6,000 flights a day so a couple of new routes aren’t that big of an issue for us,” Kirby remarked.He added, “But I guess I feel complimented when other airlines feel like they’re worried about us getting ahead and have to fly routes that are going to loose money for them.” This sentiment underscores the confidence within United as both airlines navigate the lucrative landscape of premium air travel.

How are delta and United addressing the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible travel options?

Table of Contents

Delta and United: Redefining airline Excellence

The Evolution of Passenger Experience

For decades, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have been cornerstones of the US aviation industry. But the landscape of air travel is constantly shifting. Both airlines are actively investing in redefining what passengers expect from a full-service carrier, moving beyond basic transportation to focus on holistic travel experiences. This isn’t just about comfortable seats; it’s a complete overhaul encompassing technology, sustainability, and personalized service. Key areas of improvement include in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi connectivity, and streamlined airport processes.

Delta’s focus: Premium Services & Operational Reliability

Delta has consistently positioned itself as a premium airline, and recent investments reinforce this strategy.

Delta One Suites: The rollout of Delta One suites across long-haul routes offers a private, lie-flat experience, significantly enhancing comfort for business and first-class travelers. This is a direct response to growing demand for privacy and premium amenities.

Digital Identity & Biometrics: Delta’s FlyReady program, leveraging digital identity and biometric scanning, aims to drastically reduce wait times at security and boarding. This initiative showcases a commitment to technological innovation for passenger convenience.

Operational Performance: Delta has historically maintained a strong record for on-time performance and baggage handling. Continued investment in technology and staffing aims to solidify this reputation, a critical factor for frequent flyers.

Sustainability Initiatives: delta is investing heavily in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and carbon offset programs, responding to increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible travel options.

United’s Strategy: Innovation & Network Expansion

United airlines is taking a different, yet equally ambitious, approach, focusing on innovation and expanding its global network.

Polaris Lounges: United’s Polaris lounges offer a premium airport experience for international business and first-class passengers, featuring restaurant-style dining and quiet relaxation areas.

NextGen Aircraft: United has been a leader in ordering next-generation aircraft like the boeing 787 dreamliner and Airbus A350,offering improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline is also heavily invested in the Boeing 737 MAX family.

Route Network Growth: United is strategically expanding its route network, particularly to international destinations, offering passengers more direct flight options. This includes a focus on underserved markets.

United MileagePlus Enhancements: Continual updates to the MileagePlus loyalty program, including dynamic award pricing and increased earning opportunities, aim to retain and attract frequent flyers.

Comparing In-Flight Experiences: Comfort & Connectivity

Both airlines are making significant strides in in-flight comfort and connectivity.

| Feature | Delta air Lines | United Airlines |

|——————-|———————————————–|———————————————–|

| Wi-Fi | Expanding to free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members | offering free Wi-Fi on select routes, expanding fleet-wide |

| In-Flight Entertainment | Delta Studio with extensive content library | United Hub app with streaming and live TV |

| Seat Comfort | Delta One Suites, Comfort+ options | Polaris seats, Economy Plus options |

| Food & Beverage| Complimentary snacks & beverages, premium options for purchase | complimentary snacks & beverages, premium options for purchase |

The competition in this space is fierce, with both airlines constantly upgrading their offerings to provide a more enjoyable in-flight experience. Passengers increasingly expect seamless connectivity and a wide range of entertainment options.

Loyalty Programs: A Battle for Customer Retention

Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus are two of the most prominent airline loyalty programs. Both programs offer a tiered system with benefits increasing with status.

Earning Miles: Both programs allow earning miles through flights,credit card spending,and partnerships with other businesses.

Redemption Options: Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.

Elite Status Benefits: Elite status members enjoy perks such as priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and lounge access.

Dynamic Pricing: Both airlines have moved towards dynamic pricing for award flights, meaning the number of miles required for a flight can vary based on demand.

The Impact of Technology on the Passenger Journey

Technology is playing a pivotal role in transforming the passenger journey.

  1. Mobile Apps: Both Delta and United offer robust mobile apps that allow passengers to check in,manage their bookings,track their bags,and access in-flight entertainment.
  2. Self-Service Kiosks: Self-service kiosks at airports streamline the check-in process and reduce wait times.
  3. Automated Bag Drop: Automated bag drop systems allow passengers to quickly and easily check their luggage.
  4. AI-Powered Customer Service: Both airlines are exploring the use of AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to provide faster and more efficient customer service.

Case Study: Delta’s Response to winter Storms (2023)

During the severe winter storms of december 2023, Delta proactively canceled a significant number of flights to avoid widespread disruptions. While causing inconvenience for some passengers, this decision ultimately minimized the cascading effects of delays and cancellations, demonstrating a commitment to operational resilience. This contrasted with challenges faced by other airlines during the same period, highlighting Delta’s investment in proactive disruption management.

Future Trends: Sustainability & Personalization

The future of airline excellence will be shaped by two key trends: sustainability and personalization.

* Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Both Delta and United are investing in

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Economy

Amex Elite: Spending Strong, Except on This…

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Amex Faces Intense Competition as rivals Revamp Premium Card Offerings

New York, NY – June 18, 2025 – american Express is navigating a challenging landscape as rivals like JPMorgan Chase and Capital One aggressively enhance their premium credit card portfolios, a move that is raising investor concerns about increased spending on rewards programs.

The pressure is particularly acute for Amex as it rolls out a revamped platinum card.Analysts point to heightened competition in the lucrative premium card segment, with jpmorgan’s Sapphire Reserve and Capital One’s offerings becoming increasingly attractive. Citigroup is also a key player in this evolving market.

“The bear narrative is they have to push harder and harder to get growth, spending more to get more,” said one market observer. This sentiment reflects investor apprehension that amex may need to considerably boost its investment in rewards and benefits to maintain its market share and attract new cardholders in the face of these aggressive competitor moves.

Evergreen insights for Cardholders and Investors:

The current market dynamics highlight a essential truth in the credit card industry: differentiation and value proposition are paramount. As companies like Amex, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One vie for the affluent consumer, they are forced to innovate and enhance their offerings. This translates into:

For consumers: A more competitive habitat often leads to better perks, rewards, and benefits for premium cardholders. Consumers should actively monitor these changes to ensure they are maximizing the value of their chosen cards and consider which offerings best align with their spending habits and lifestyle. The race for customers means that loyalty can be rewarded with increasingly generous benefits packages. For Investors: The premium credit card market is a key battleground for financial institutions. Understanding the competitive pressures, the cost of rewards programs, and the companies’ ability to innovate and acquire customers is crucial for assessing long-term growth potential. Companies that can effectively manage their rewards spending while delivering compelling value are likely to succeed. This trend underscores the importance of strategic investment in customer acquisition and retention, even if it comes with short-term cost increases.The ability to anticipate and adapt to changing consumer preferences will be a defining factor for success.

How does the Amex Elite’s reward structure specifically impact EuroBonus point accumulation for SAS loyalists?

Table of Contents

Amex Elite: Spending Strong, Except on This…

The American Express Elite card is a powerhouse for travel rewards and luxury perks in Norway. However, even with its remarkable benefits, there’s a meaningful area where its spending power falls short compared to some competitors – and it’s crucial for frequent travelers to understand. This article dives deep into the Amex Elite’s strengths, its limitations, and how to maximize its value, notably when considering alternatives like the SAS MC Premium.

the Allure of Amex Elite: A Premium Card Breakdown

The amex Elite card consistently ranks among the top premium credit cards available. Its appeal stems from a robust package of benefits, including:

Generous Rewards: Earn Membership Rewards points on every purchase, redeemable for travel, merchandise, and more.

Airport Lounge Access: Extensive access to airport lounges worldwide through Priority Pass and other networks.

Travel Insurance: Thorough travel insurance coverage, providing peace of mind on your journeys.

Hotel Benefits: Elite status with various hotel programs, unlocking perks like room upgrades and complimentary breakfast.

Concierge Service: A dedicated concierge to assist with travel planning, restaurant reservations, and more.

These features make the Amex Elite a compelling choice for those who prioritize a premium travel experience. However, the annual cost – currently 6600 NOK (as of July 20, 2025) – is ample. This equates to roughly the cost of a round-trip economy ticket to a decent destination,as highlighted in discussions on platforms like InsideFlyer NO.

Where Amex Elite Falls short: SAS & Scandinavian Airlines Purchases

The key area where the Amex Elite underperforms is when it comes to direct purchases from SAS scandinavian Airlines. While the card excels in earning rewards on most spending categories,SAS tickets and upgrades are notably excluded from earning Membership Rewards points. This is a significant drawback for frequent flyers loyal to the SAS network.

This limitation isn’t a secret, but it’s frequently enough overlooked by potential cardholders.The reason? Amex and SAS have a complex relationship, and direct bookings with SAS don’t benefit from the Amex Elite’s rewards structure.

SAS MC Premium: A Direct Competitor for SAS Loyalists

For those who frequently fly with SAS, the SAS MC Premium card presents a strong alternative.This card is specifically designed for SAS EuroBonus members and offers:

EuroBonus points on SAS Purchases: Earn a substantial number of EuroBonus points on all SAS purchases, including flights, upgrades, and even SAS hotels.

Bonus Points: Opportunities to earn bonus points through various promotions and spending challenges.

Lounge Access: Access to SAS lounges.

Lower Annual Fee (Compared to Amex Elite): The SAS MC Premium, alongside Amex Premium and MC World, has a substantially lower annual cost of 1665 NOK.

The trade-off is that the SAS MC Premium generally lacks the broader travel benefits and luxury perks offered by the amex Elite. However, if your primary travel focus is with SAS, the increased earning potential on SAS purchases can easily outweigh these differences.

Maximizing Your Amex Elite: Strategic Spending

Despite its limitations with SAS, the Amex Elite remains a valuable card for many.Here’s how to maximize its benefits:

  1. Focus on Non-SAS Travel: Use the Amex Elite for all other travel expenses – hotels, car rentals, flights with other airlines – to accumulate Membership Rewards points.
  2. Leverage Transfer Partners: Transfer your membership Rewards points to airline and hotel partners for potentially higher redemption values.
  3. Utilize Shopping Perks: Take advantage of Amex Offers and other shopping promotions to earn bonus points on everyday purchases.
  4. Consider a Dual-Card Strategy: If you frequently fly with SAS, consider pairing the Amex Elite with the SAS MC Premium. Use each card strategically to maximize rewards based on your spending patterns.

Real-World Example: The Frequent Flyer Dilemma

Let’s say you spend 20,000 NOK annually on SAS flights. With the Amex Elite, you earn zero EuroBonus points on this spending. With the SAS MC Premium, you could earn a significant number of EuroBonus points, potentially enough for a free flight or upgrade. This illustrates the importance of aligning your credit card choices with your travel habits.

Understanding the Cost-Benefit Analysis

Ultimately, the decision between the Amex Elite and the SAS MC Premium (or other alternatives) comes down to a cost-benefit analysis. Consider your:

Annual Travel Spending: How much do you spend on travel each year?

Airline Loyalty: Are you primarily loyal to SAS,or do you fly with a variety of airlines?

Reward Redemption Preferences: How do you prefer to redeem your rewards – for travel,merchandise,or cash back?

* Value of Perks: How much do you value the luxury perks offered by the Amex Elite,such as airport lounge access and concierge service?

By carefully evaluating these factors,you

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