Changes To The SPG Amex Card

American Express has written to holders of the SPG Amex card detailing changes to come into effect on the 26 February. Now as most people are aware SPG is no longer since the merge with Marriott Rewards and the creation of Marriott Bonvoy. So it was only a matter of time before a re-branded credit card was released… but with the recent cuts across American Express cards how does the revamped card fare…

For existing cardholders SPG Amex card holders:

A replacement Marriott Bonvoy Amex will sent to you when your existing card expires. Though if you really wanted the new design I’m sure you could just request a new card.

Rather than receiving Silver Status annually you will receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually which will give you silver status. This is a genuine improvement if you want Platinum Elite Status (upgrades, lounge access, 4pm checkout & breakfast etc.) as it means you will only need 35 nights as opposed to 50.

With the Elite Night credits It is only 10 extra nights for Gold Elite status (or spending £15,000 on the card.) but it’s not of much value… no free breakfast or any benefits of note. You can also get Marriott Gold Elite for free if you have the American Express Platinum Card.

The earning rate is decreasing from 3 points per £1 to 2 points per £1. This is a harsh 33% drop in the earning rate. With the £75 annual fee you may wish to look at alternative ways to top up your Marriott Points.

Other existing benefits are staying the same e.g. spend £25,000 in a year for a free night certificate (only valid on hotels up to 25,000 points however) and Gold elite for spending £15,000 in a year.

The rates, fees and charges (including annual fee of £75) are staying exactly the same.

You can read the updated copy of the Card Agreement here – http://americanexpress.com/uk/newterms10

For new potential cardholders:

If you apply for the SPG Amex you’ll have the current benefits until the 26th February when they will change to the new benefits listed above.

Business Traveller reports that the sign up bonus is changing from a generous 30,000 Marriott points for spending £1,000 in 3 months to a less generous 20,000 Marriott points for spending £3,000 in 3 months. On that basis if you are eligible for the sign up bonus, I’d apply and get it before the changes! Read here for why the SPG Amex is my recommended first card for those new to point collecting.

Will you keep the SPG Amex with these new incoming changes?