In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke dives into some of the most significant updates in the travel and points space. He breaks down Chase’s massive new welcome offers on Ink Business Cash and Ink Business Unlimited, which can unlock up to 90,000 Ultimate Rewards points. DeAndre also covers a long-awaited upgrade to the Avios ecosystem, where a new platform now makes transfers between British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Finnair, and Aer Lingus seamless and instant. Hilton’s fast-track Diamond promotion through Hilton for Business is highlighted as a new path for elite status, while Hyatt Regency promotions continue to add value for frequent travelers. The most significant update of the week is the refresh of the Amex Platinum and Business Platinum cards, bringing higher fees but also enhanced benefits, including expanded Fine Hotels & Resorts credits, new Resi dining credits, and added lifestyle perks like Lululemon. Finally, he shares valuable community-sourced tips for paying taxes with business credit cards more efficiently and sets the stage for exciting giveaways coming with the podcast’s 100th episode.
Key takeaways:
- Chase Ink offers: New 90,000-point bonuses on Ink Business Cash and Ink Business Unlimited after meeting spend requirements.
- Avios transfer upgrade: A new system makes transferring Avios between programs, such as BA, Qatar, Iberia, and Finnair, seamless and instant.
- Hilton fast-track: Complete 10 Hilton for Business nights by December 15 to earn Diamond status through 2027.
- Amex Platinum refresh: Personal and Business Platinum annual fees increase to $895, but new perks include $600 in Fine Hotels & Resorts credits, Resi dining credits, and Lululemon credits.
- Business Platinum boost: Large spend categories and $5,000+ purchases now earn 2x points instead of 1.5x.
- Centurion lounges: The new Amex app introduces waitlist features for lounges, plus improved tracking for welcome bonuses.
- Hilton devaluation: Top-tier properties now cost up to 250,000 points per night, raising the bar for aspirational stays.
- Alaska changes: Alaska’s Atmos Rewards program is scaling back partnerships with LATAM and Singapore Airlines.
- Tax payments hack: Paying estimated taxes via PayPal with a business card can reduce fees to 1.85%.
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