I’d file this under highly speculative but according to a Frequent Miler reader who was apparently mingling with Marriott employees at an SPG lounge (I did say it was highly speculative) the separate Marriott & SPG programs will be combined in late 2018 and the current credit cards will be replaced with a three tier card system and a really good initial offer. No other information was given (e.g card issuer) Frequent Miler is speculating that because of the three tiers that American Express will be the issuer as they have a history of this style (e.g Delta cards & and now also Hilton with the no annual fee card, Hilton Ascend & Hilton Aspire). I think that makes sense, but Chase could have easily copied the model and it could also be argued that they already offer a three tier card system with the Marriott no annual fee card, Premier & Ritz-Carlton.
Chase just released Chase Offers on the Marriott cards (and Slate) and that would be a strange decision to make if they are definitely losing that portfolio, although it could be part of their strategy to increase cardholder spend to increase the backbook if American Express is planning to purchase it. I believe that Chase’s card contract ends in 2018 and American Express’ end in 2020, I’m sure there are some provisions in there for what happens in case of any merger/sale as well. My personal opinion is that nothing has been decided as of yet and Chase & American Express are both trying to win the partnership. In any case I’ll check in with some sources at both Chase & American Express to see if I can find out anything else. As always if you’re in the know, share the love and let me know ([email protected]).
I know some people hate these speculation posts, but personally they are my favorite ones to write and you can always easily skip them with ‘rumor’ being prominently displayed in the title.
