Point Me To First Class 135. Amex Platinum Cards Refresh: What’s New, What’s Missing, and What We Really Think
Sep 29, 2025
In this discussion, Kelly, known as The Points and Miles Doc, delves into American Express's recent updates to its Platinum Cards following Chase's refresh. They dissect the higher annual fees and the newly added credits, particularly the $600 hotel credit and tiered large-spend perks. Kelly points out the lack of bonus categories still plaguing the personal Platinum card, while praising the business version's 2X on large purchases over $5,000. They ultimately assess the value of these changes for both personal and business users.
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Credit Card 'Couponization' Trend
- The recent wave of premium card refreshes reflects industry 'couponization' where issuers add granular credits to justify higher fees.
- Amex doubled down on credits to remain the premium-perks leader rather than compete on simpler multipliers.
Credits Over Bonus Categories
- The Amex Personal Platinum refresh mainly adds larger, more granular credits rather than stronger bonus-earning categories.
- Kelly and Devon find the changes bulkier but user-dependent in real value.
Mix Credits To Offset Fee
- Use the new $600 fine hotels and resorts credit and the $400 Resy credit strategically to offset the higher $895 fee.
- Combine credits across six-month windows or local dining habits to maximize redemption.