The article compares the Amex Business Platinum and Capital One Venture X Business credit cards, highlighting their differences in annual fees, welcome bonuses, rewards, benefits, lounge access, and perks. The Venture X offers a lower annual fee and simpler rewards structure, while the Amex provides extensive lounge access and statement credits but at a higher cost. The best choice depends on the user's travel habits and benefit preferences.
American Express has upgraded its Platinum Card with new perks worth approximately $3,500, including a $400 dining credit, a $600 hotel credit, and other benefits, while increasing the annual fee to $895, aiming to justify the higher cost with enhanced value.
Southwest Airlines is considering restricting its popular Companion Pass benefit to only top-tier elite members as part of potential changes to its loyalty program, which could reduce the flexibility and value of the pass for most customers, amid broader strategic shifts and investor influence.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is updating its benefits to include up to $500 in annual hotel credits for bookings through The Edit by Chase Travel, which offers luxury hotel perks and potential savings, though the value depends on the hotel and booking details. The benefit is aimed at promoting luxury travel bookings and is available to both new and existing cardholders, with some nuances in how credits are applied and used.
American Express announced its largest-ever investment in upgrading its Platinum credit cards, aiming to enhance travel, dining, and lifestyle benefits, with updates applicable to both US consumer and business cards, amidst rising competition in the premium credit card market.
Delta Amex credit cards have undergone significant changes, including increased annual fees and enhanced benefits such as additional statement credits, improved companion certificates, and fast track to elite status. The cards now offer more potential yearly value, but the increased annual fees may require cardholders to assess whether the changes align with their travel style and spending habits. Additionally, the cards come with increased welcome bonuses for new cardholders, making it essential for individuals to evaluate the overall impact of these changes on their financial situation.
United Airlines has announced that it will not be changing its elite status qualification rules for the 2025 program year, unlike Delta Air Lines, which recently increased its requirements. United's decision aims to maintain a robust and valuable set of benefits for its Premier elite members and avoid a situation where an excessive number of elite members could hinder the delivery of benefits. The airline had already reinstated pre-pandemic criteria earlier this year and will continue to assist elite members in maintaining their status through one-time premier qualifying flights deposits. Despite some disgruntled elite members, United's decision provides relief for customers who barely meet the status requirements for their tier.
