I’M DONE: The Amex Trifecta Is DEAD to Me…

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 24 ก.ค. 2024
  • It’s GAME OVER for the Amex Trifecta! Learn the 5 reasons why it’s no longer my main credit card setup or strategy, what I’m doing instead, and why I’m still keeping it (yes, you read that right)! Click “Show More” to see Ad Disclosure.
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    00:00 - Intro
    00:20 - Reason #1
    2:22 - Reason #2
    3:36 - Reason #3
    5:05 - Reason #4
    8:07 - Reason #5
    9:29 - Should I Cancel?
    10:33 - Will I Still Use Amex?
    REASON 1: Credit Overwhelm. If you’re familiar with the American Express Platinum Card, you know what I’m talking about! From the Uber Cash benefit, $200 hotel credit, $200 airline fee credit, $300 Equinox credit, up to $100 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and more, there’s A LOT to keep track of. Making matters even more difficult, many of these credits expire at different times and they do not roll over. The Amex Gold Card has its own $120 Uber Cash benefit and $120 Dining Credit. For now, the Amex Blue Business Plus is free from all this. For a 'simple' Amex Trifecta, you definitely need to put in some work.
    REASON 2: Sky-High Annual Fees. The Amex Platinum Card has a $695 annual fee, the Amex Gold Card has an annual fee of $250, and (fortunately) the Amex Blue Business Plus is still at $0. In order to run the Amex Trifecta, you’ll be paying $945 in annual fees each year (with a bunch of credits and benefits in order to justify it).
    REASON 3: I’m Not Using the #1 Redemption Method (Right Now). This refers to using Amex transfer partners for travel, particularly for flights. There’s no better way to get the most value out of your Amex points than using these partners to fly internationally on a long-haul flight in a premium cabin (like premium economy, business class, or first class). While the big value isn’t guaranteed (it depends on the itinerary), the potential is there. For at least the next year, I’m not doing these types of flights. Rather, I’m focused on cash back via the Schwab Platinum Card, which gives me 1.1¢ per point.
    REASON 4: Higher Percent Return With Other Cards. For my situation, I can obtain 5% cash back on everyday rewards categories like Groceries, Gas, Dining, and Online Shopping. This is a higher cash back return that I’d get using the Amex Trifecta. For Q1 2024, cards like the following can make this happen:
    - Chase Freedom Flex
    - Citi Custom Cash
    - Discover it Cash Back
    - Amazon Prime Visa
    - Runner Up: Amex Blue Cash Everyday, which earns 3% back on U.S. Online Retail
    REASON 5: I Earn Amex Points via Rakuten. Rakuten is an online shopping portal that allows you to earn additional cash back on top of your credit card rewards. The cool thing is that you can change your rewards preference to Amex Membership Rewards points instead! While I’d earn even more Amex points with the Amex Trifecta, I find the earnings via Rakuten to be sufficient for now.
    WILL I STILL USE AMEX CARDS? Yes, however, the Amex Trifecta will no longer be my default strategy for the near future. Rather, I plan to use select, individual American Express cards as part of a broader credit card strategy.
    Disclosure: The thoughts, opinions, and information presented are those of the creator. This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com, YourBestCreditCards.com, and others. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. The content in this video is accurate as of the posting date. Some of the offers mentioned may no longer be available. Mark Reese is not a financial advisor.
    #creditcards #creditcard #travelcreditcards
  • แนวปฏิบัติและการใช้ชีวิต

ความคิดเห็น • 238

  • @MarkReese
    @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

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  • @LiamRichie825
    @LiamRichie825 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +52

    I recently cancelled my surpass and told the rep I didn’t like that they’re upping the annual fee and justifying it with a big coupon book. I hope more start doing the same and Amex takes note.

    • @clausellray3949
      @clausellray3949 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I did that too I couldn’t justify having it and it didn’t work for me hopefully Amx will get together

    • @berryzedzero
      @berryzedzero 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      no better feeling in the world than canceling a credit card. closing that chapter in your life for good!

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      Smart move to let a card go if it no longer provides you with the value you want 👍

    • @itsagreatday9765
      @itsagreatday9765 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I actually added a Surpass to my Aspire after the changes because now it's easy to get $50/quarter if u stay at a Hilton property once every quarter

    • @rived6465
      @rived6465 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@itsagreatday9765you can also just buy Hilton gift cards and works for the credit as well

  • @tlewis4522
    @tlewis4522 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    Amex benefits feel like something my wife tells me, oh she saved us money by buying that purse because it was 45% off. I always reply you could’ve saved 100% by not buying it…

    • @mranderson8725
      @mranderson8725 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😂😂😂

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hahaha EXACTLY 😂👌

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Fax. That’s why I make a list of wants and needs. And price them. So I buy appropriately. List is like 10 items. If that. Some on there for YEARS🤣.

  • @docsays
    @docsays 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    For me the gold + green is a nice 2 card setup. I use the clear credit on the green & dining credit on the gold.
    I’ll eventually add the bbp

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      💯💯

  • @DidIDoThaat
    @DidIDoThaat 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I'm considering getting the Hilton Aspire but don't have any other amex cards. If I get the Aspire card, will it cancel out the rewards for the lower tier versions if I want to apply for those at some point? Or does that rule not apply to the hotel and airline cards for amex?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      As I write this on 1.09.2024, the Hilton credit cards do not have the family rule restrictions. However, that could change at any time. So, if I wanted to get the bonuses on each version, I'd personally go with the no-fee HH card first, then the HH Surpass, then the HH Aspire. However, the choice is up to you. If you want the HH Aspire more than the other offers, you could go for it.

  • @dougn7319
    @dougn7319 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I've seen a bunch of credit card youtubers make this same video recently. Everyone is done with these credits. Hopefully enough people cancel that we get a reboot back to something not ridiculous.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Sometimes I miss the older days of the simpler $450 Amex Platinum Card + $175 Premier Rewards Gold 😁

  • @DallinBunnell
    @DallinBunnell 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    I'm actually loving the VentureX and Amex Gold combo. Granted, yes I also have the Discover It and the Freedom Flex, but we're trying to stack points for a trip so I'm prioritizing Amex. But I like the simplicity of the earnings categories and the credits.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Great 4 cards right there 💯 Go make that trip happen!

    • @yurig2530
      @yurig2530 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Another devaluation on Venture X - no more Hertz status after 2024.

  • @JesseSlomowitz
    @JesseSlomowitz 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I kinda wish at this point that credit card companies would allow the idea of using one card but allow a client to subscribe to individual perks for their account. We are already paying the subscription costs for the different cards but it seems at times strange to hold 3 Amex cards that end up being connected to a single account and the perks are not useful for the client or able to rollover. It kinda feels like a mess. The Curve Card has the best idea of being able to use one card and then switch a payment to the proper card of choice but especially in America the card can't really link to most credit card companies.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I too like the idea of a 'build your own card' model whereby you choose the rewards / benefits packages (and the annual fee changes based on what you choose) 👍 The all-in-one card idea is an interesting one. A number of companies have attempted it, yet failed in making it successful. Looks like the Curve Card flopped, too: www.doctorofcredit.com/curve-all-in-one-card-coming-to-america/

  • @flubberghosted2472
    @flubberghosted2472 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Annual fees are extremely irritating to my soul… Takes a lot for me to justify them.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😁👍

  • @RampageMaximum
    @RampageMaximum 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    I’ll keep it honest chief, I was very excited to get the Gold Card with SUB of 90,000 plus the BPP for 15,000 and use it for travel. But other than that, it’s hard to maintain the Gold at a high annual fee with credits I rarely use. I love AMEX, its customer service and incredible transfer partners but they share some with Chase and Capitol One. Amex needs to revamp the Gold Card to keep it, at least to me. For now, I’m 50/50 but we’ll see what Amex can do in 2024!

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Totally understandable 👍 Congrats on the 90K + 15K offers, though! Excellent potential value for travel.

  • @FatStacksAcademy
    @FatStacksAcademy 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    Loved your analysis on the trifecta and how your everyday spending can be covered by non-annual fee cards.
    I actually just cancelled my venture X because I don’t know that I’ll use the travel credit this year and don’t want to be forced to use the portal.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Makes sense to get rid of the Venture X if travel isn't on the radar right now ✈

  • @joegulledge2307
    @joegulledge2307 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I just canceled my vanilla plat card and will most likely cancel the cs plat next year. Already cancelled the gold card and hilton surpass this yr too. With a growing family i dont have time to juggle all of the credits anymore.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Family time > time managing credit cards 😄

  • @keny46
    @keny46 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I typically stay away from cards that have annual fees b/c very often I think people over spend on the "benefits" b/c they only use a small amount, or get the other services that they otherwise wouldn't have spent the money on. Most of the travel cards you have to book your travel through their travel portal where you end up spending more in equivalent money by buying the trip with points. Unless you're getting a card where the money spent on them is mandatory expenses in your life ala groceries gas utilities you feel obligated to spend the money (and is most cases overspend) which is what the credit card companies want. Just do the math people these cards don't make sense for the majority of people out there.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good points above!

  • @bwwemetallica
    @bwwemetallica 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I’m pulling out of the AMEX trifecta myself this year too. My Gold’s annual fee is due next month so I’m just using up what I can this month and early next month and I’m out. I’m getting a lot more budget conscious so I’m cutting back heavily. Going cash back now.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Team Cash Back has tons of value! 💵

  • @alan5454
    @alan5454 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Mark, can we product change our platinum card to charles swab platinum version instead cancel it?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Nope ☹

  • @Flyin5013
    @Flyin5013 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Can anyone tell me if this is a bad idea. Right now my travel card is Wells Fargo autograph and I also have capital one quick silver but they won’t approve me for venture x right now. Was looking to get the gold and platinum Amex in the next year and a half and stack those and then later on get the venture X. And have those 3 as my 3 main cards. The annual fees seem like a lot at that point but with me and my fiancé both using the cards i would think we can stack a lot of points together for traveling 1-2 Times a year

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Only you can determine if it's a good / bad decision for you 👍 Add up the value of the rewards, benefits, etc., compare that to the cost of the fees you'd pay, and let the result guide you. Also keep in mind your willingness to manage / track benefits. As long as the cards help you reach your goals, they can make sense. They're nothing more than a tool to be used for a certain outcome, and the tools will vary from one outcome to another.

  • @blakinsideandout
    @blakinsideandout 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    I have been saying this for about a year. The amex and chase trifectas are only viewed as valuable because of legacy.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Makes me miss the old days 😬

    • @VanguardX
      @VanguardX 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      The Gold is completely outclassed by no AF cards and the plat is a joke compared to VX and CSR. The only reason to get Gold and Plat is to yoink 90k+150K MR points and cancel in the 13th month or hope for a retention offer- if none- dump amex. They don't want to compete it seems.

  • @parkour267
    @parkour267 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    You say 0 dollar fee bbp at this time. Do u anticipate them charging a fee in the near future?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Not currently, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Amex do it 😬

  • @tlewis4522
    @tlewis4522 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    I believe the duo/combo set ups are the best way to go now: Venture X/Savior, Premier/Custom Cash, and Autograph/Active Cash.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      A lot of good 2-card setups right now! 💯

    • @fogrunr5075
      @fogrunr5075 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I downgraded Premier to Double Cash last August. Feeling pretty good now that Citi has a 1-yewr benefit of spend $500 get $100 off hotel stays for both both Custom Cash and Double Cash (as well as Premier and others).

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@fogrunr5075 “Enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more”. So basically Citi’s FHR but not as good.

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Cap1 duo is best in game. Cap1 could improve transfer partners just a bit tho.

  • @parkour267
    @parkour267 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Better as a amex duo fecta by dropping the platinum. I have my priority pass benefits from the ritz Carlton to give me some travel benefit to replace it for my needs. The gold and bbp is what builds all the points anyway.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Gold + BBP = excellent point earners 🏆

  • @kevinManhattan
    @kevinManhattan 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I am still a major Amex fan as i am one of those rare ones that don't mind the coupon book approach. I'm trying to get my 3rd Aspire card and that tells you how much I love Amex. My wife's approach, is whole another story. She hesitated about canceling her Platinum card and I think this just might have pushed it over the edge. Cancelling!

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good to hear the coupon book doesn't bother you! Plenty of value in Amex cards if they fit in with your life 💯

  • @CBRboy1717
    @CBRboy1717 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Canceling my Platinum in a month. Hate the coupon book. My Capital One duo is working great. Might add the Hilton card for my honeymoon instead of the Plat.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Glad you're liking the C1 duo!

  • @Darkflamemaster3
    @Darkflamemaster3 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Mark besides flighs and lounges what other way you personally use the platinum card

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      - Book paid flights
      - Lounge access
      - Redeem via Schwab
      - Amex Offers
      - Referrals
      - The fewest # of credits I can get away with easily: Equinox, Uber, Airline Fee Credit, Saks, CLEAR.

  • @ExponentialGainzzz
    @ExponentialGainzzz 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I remain a devoted fan of the Amex TriFecta, primarily due to their exceptional customer support. Opting for the Amex Delta Skymiles Reserve over the Platinum, I enjoy the annual companion certificate and access to the Sky Lounge. While other cards might offer higher returns, the allure and customer support of AMEX keeps me loyal.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Great that it brings you the value you're looking for!

  • @invisiblebiscuits
    @invisiblebiscuits 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    It’s mostly just the Platinum that is hard to support. The Gold and BBP are fine. I wish they buffed the Green a little bit by replacing dining with gas, and adding bit more lounge credit… would make for a good alternative trifecta.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Good points. I too would like to see the Green Card include a Gas category.

  • @JacobsPointsAndProfit
    @JacobsPointsAndProfit 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Good points in this video. The AMEX Trifecta is expensive every year you hold it, but can still be worth it for some if you use all of the credits, lounge access, and transfer partners

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Indeed 👍

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Only card worth having is plat. And that’s on watch list. 😂

  • @yurig2530
    @yurig2530 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I like Citi trifecta + Curve. I currently have Prestige, AT&T Access More, 9 CCC and Sears. This is a killer combo!

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      A killer combo indeed!

  • @Big_Jims_American_Dream
    @Big_Jims_American_Dream 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Been dominating lately with the Citi trifecta.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I like it 👊💯

  • @watchPaige
    @watchPaige 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    NYC lifestyle living my Quadfecta
    Platinum - flights, lounges
    Green- subway, trains,bus, Uber
    Gold - food groceries
    Blue business- general purchase
    Not all force expenses all naturally ! Yay! Point points points ! still worth it for me year 2024

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      An excellent setup for the right lifestyle!

  • @devlin76
    @devlin76 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video Mark! I agree with the sentiment, and do not currently have either the Gold or Platinum. However, a limitation of using cards like the Chase Freedoms, Citi Custom Cash, and Discover IT in those spots is the spending caps. The Gold is uncapped and the BBP has that $50k/year cap. The others are going to have the $500/month or $1500/quarter limits on that beautiful 5% earning rate.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thank you! Correct 👍 (Although the Gold has a spend cap of $25K/yr). One workaround is to get multiples of the same card.

  • @ovx23
    @ovx23 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    why do i think that your gana try to go for the wells fargo cards set up since they should be adding transfer partners this yr
    i say this cause thats what im trying to do now

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Depends on what they offer. Though since travel isn't a focus for me in 2024, the addition of transfer partners won't add value to me right now.

  • @CitizenZero1
    @CitizenZero1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I plan on cancelling the gold and platinum this year. I feel like if you’re not traveling at least a few times per year it’s not worth it.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yep, even though the Gold Card has some useful at-home categories, the rewards are geared for travel.

  • @jacquesmassard9226
    @jacquesmassard9226 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Other for like endgame get all the bonus. I just don't use like a gold enough to make it worth it ? the plantium is fine for me and how i spend. I might get the cash back amex that has a disney+ credit

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Getting all the bonuses is key! 💯

  • @RichColemanTx
    @RichColemanTx 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video. Refreshing perspective.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Thanks Rich!

  • @travelswiththecontessa5307
    @travelswiththecontessa5307 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Have you heard any chatter about success in getting the gold welcome bonus even though one already has the Amex platinum? I have unfortunately been in pop-up jail for the last year and therefore missed my chance at getting the gold welcome bonus before they changed to this ridiculous policy. 🙄

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      No data points that I've heard yet ✌

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      lifetime language is ridiculous. This on top of flattening family bonus eligibility. Never got a gold SUB? Too bad u got one for plat😕

    • @travelswiththecontessa5307
      @travelswiththecontessa5307 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@newagain9964 it really is. It's as though Amex is trying to give business to other Banks. The platinum is only useful for booking flights - it's a waste for me to put any other spending on it. So I end up using Capital One, Chase & Citi for the bulk of my purchasing, i.e. groceries, transit, gas, and other!

  • @andrewt5381
    @andrewt5381 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    AMEX is not widely accepted by small business so I don't bother to carry it

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I hear ya on that 👍

  • @raze2400
    @raze2400 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wrong The annual fee is really $139+ tax if you want 5% cashback with the Amazon Prime card for online or groceries(Whole Foods). ITS not $0 if you using all 5 cards

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      While I understand your perspective, I see things differently. The cost of a Prime Membership is $139. The annual fee cost to add the Prime Visa is $0.

  • @thejokerspeaks
    @thejokerspeaks 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm sick of $10 monthly credits at places I wouldn't use anyways. I'm exactly like you, cashing out my MR points with Schwab at 1.1 cents, or 1.2 cents transferring to Delta or Hilton. This will likely never change, especially after dropping both of my gold cards and a BBP. I am now aggressively earning Alaska miles for partner international travel, so why slowly stockpile MR?
    My basically setup is Venture X + Hilton Surpass + IHG, which covers restaurant, grocery, gas, travel, and general. I also have a Hilton trifecta, which includes the Aspire and Business. After they refresh the latter, and assuming I keep it, I'm going to need a spreadsheet to keep track of the credits, but at least they're travel orientated.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Nice card setup 🏆

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Oh. A Hilton loyalist. I keep hearing diamond is only worth it internationally..can u confirm if true sentiment?

    • @thejokerspeaks
      @thejokerspeaks 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@newagain9964 Partial loyalist, we also stay at IHG too, with Hyatt coming into play. I can confirm that I have never been upgraded once domestically, even at a conference Hilton that was 90% empty for Christmas. I've never stayed in an international property, but we'll find out in Vancouver and Tokyo later this year.

  • @yurig2530
    @yurig2530 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I cancelled most of Amex trifecta, now I only hold BBP, and 3 Hilton cards (Aspire, Surpass and Business).

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      💯👍

  • @chriseverydailyshow4164
    @chriseverydailyshow4164 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    The Schwab credit more than covers the platinum af. No other credits needed. It's an option, if it's an option.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Schwab credit? Are you referring to the Schwab Appreciation Bonus of $100 - $200?

    • @chriseverydailyshow4164
      @chriseverydailyshow4164 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@MarkReese Nope. Although, I guess that would help.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@chriseverydailyshow4164 - Which Schwab credit are you referring to?

  • @bernardosanchez5954
    @bernardosanchez5954 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    They increased the spending bonus from 6,000 to 8,000 for platinum and 4,000 to 6,000 for gold, even with the 6 month time period it's WAY too much for me to justify getting them

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes they did. Smart decision to avoid the offer if it'd cause you to spend money that you wouldn't normally spend.

  • @darrencordoviz6732
    @darrencordoviz6732 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I definitely agree with your points! I just got approved for the US Bank Altitude Reserve and its credits are way simpler!

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Congrats on the approval for a great card! 🏆

  • @ArcherNoble
    @ArcherNoble 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    CSR AND FU are my main combo not highest earning but most versatile I'd say.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Those 2 work well together 👍

  • @warrenescalona3033
    @warrenescalona3033 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Thanks for the video

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You bet 👊

  • @specom
    @specom 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wow, Amex Blue cash Preferred gives 6 percent back on groceries with only $95 yearly fee. Whats the advantage of gold with the higher fee?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Points vs. cash back = big difference 👌
      Points = travel
      Cash back = regular cash (no strong value for travel)

    • @specom
      @specom 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@MarkReese which is why I keep throwing away their letters begging me to switch from Blue to Platinum. I don't travel and don't have business expenses. I have made my 95 dollar annual fee several times over by using Blue preferred at Meijer. It counts even non food purchases as groceries, giving me 6 percent back on household and auto supplies and clothes. Which is why it's so silly they don't count Walmart and target as grocery stores. Meijer is no different, it is just regional.

  • @user-wh1ti5cl2c
    @user-wh1ti5cl2c 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    First of all thank you for the video. One size does not fit all. In my case I love the amex quadficta . My home airport has its centurion lounge, We fly to vegas about five times a year which also has one. And the last few years that I went to hawaii did not have to pay for a room at all. And I don't mind the coupon book.. I am an older man I don't consider it work To check the website once a week for any deals..

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great to hear you get strong value from your Amex Quadfecta, especially on your Vegas trips + island vacations 🌴

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I Imagine u get great comps if traveling to Vegas that much a year. But maybe those days are gone?

    • @user-wh1ti5cl2c
      @user-wh1ti5cl2c 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @newagain9964 I am not much of a gambler.I travel to vegas to visit my son And his family that live there. My wife and I do like staying on the strip. I never get anything comp, But I have gotten room upgrades

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@user-wh1ti5cl2c wow. I can’t imagine traveling to Vegas so much. Even for family. Terrible place.

    • @user-wh1ti5cl2c
      @user-wh1ti5cl2c 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@newagain9964 I go there to visit my son and his family. For them alone it is worth it. I do not gamble. But I do enjoy the food. I respect the reason that you choose not to go. But that in no way will influence the reason what I go

  • @TheZombaslaya
    @TheZombaslaya 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I'm currently using the Venture X and Gold card as my setup with the Savor One as a backup for dining and grocery shopping internationally or at places in the US that don't take Amex. It so happens there's a shake shack down the street from my work and I take at least one Uber a month so it works out for me, but if I switch jobs to a place where there's no shake shack nearby i'll be canceling the Gold. I have considered switching to the Altitude reserve at some point.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good that the nearby Shake Shack + Uber use allows you to make sense of the Amex Gold Card! Good combo w/ the C1VX 💯

  • @seanly274
    @seanly274 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    AMEX Trifecta (with Schwab Platinum and Business Gold and BBP) is my go to everyday setup…..gives me excellent value. Gas, groceries, restaurants, hotels, flights, and non category spend.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Great card choices! 💯

    • @HockeyJock
      @HockeyJock 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Have you ever run the analysis on how much 4X spending you need to do to simply break even on the annual fee of the Business Gold?

    • @seanly274
      @seanly274 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HockeyJock I take advantage of the $20 monthly credit with Grubhub pickup. And I earn 10s of thousands of points from the 4x for gas and dining. For me, it’s worth it.

  • @BTUCK03
    @BTUCK03 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I did not renew my Platinum or Gold this year. Instead I got the Aspire card. So far no regret.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      🏆

  • @parkour267
    @parkour267 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have the bonvoy brilliant for to get the lifetime status in a few more years since i stopped traveling for work. Wish the ritz carlton gave the higher level tho

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good idea 👍 I'm doing the same thing...using it as a tool to work towards Lifetime Platinum!

  • @DarkCeremony
    @DarkCeremony 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    How come many of the youtubers are all of a sudden not transferring for international business/first class? That’s the only reason why it’s not worth the hassle of the coupon book, if you can even call it a hassle. I’m even willing to do daily credits.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I can only speak for myself. Travel isn't a priority for me in 2024. My focus is elsewhere for at least the next 12 months.

  • @a-gappower1574
    @a-gappower1574 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I’m cancelling my Amex Gold and Plat for the same reasons on the video- opting instead for the BBP and the delta reserve respectively.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      👍👍

  • @errondeloney1396
    @errondeloney1396 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Quarter vs year round. $6000 max vs. $25k

  • @chanhle8024
    @chanhle8024 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Just canceled Gold card and AmEx Biz Plat this year as well. Definitely credits overload.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      💯👍

  • @chrisbrown8748
    @chrisbrown8748 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Awesome video as always👍🏽👍🏽.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Appreciate that!

  • @ja8160
    @ja8160 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Last october i got pop up jailed for the blue cash everyday 😑. Havent tried again yet .

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Frustrating 😐

  • @elliottnixon-wq6sp
    @elliottnixon-wq6sp 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I think another theme of this vid is complexity is the enemy. The more credits and the varying timelines increases the risk that you lose track and wind up paying more for less. Of all the Amex cards, I think the Bonvoy Brilliant does the coupon book best. There’s only one credit and it’s broad. The rest of the AF is swallowed by the free night.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good point 👍 I agree that the Bonvoy Brilliant is much more manageable than the Amex Platinum.

    • @sofiazaki731
      @sofiazaki731 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      yep, like my Brilliant too, not only for the Free Night, but mainly for the marriott platinum elite, great upgrades when travelled overseas.

  • @adebow1945
    @adebow1945 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm confused. So you are NOT done with using your AMEX cards individually. So although you complained about the annual fees, you are still going to be paying those fees, you are simply going to be using the cards "less". Since you are still paying the AFs, why wouldn't you keep track of the credits in order to fully maximize your cards although you are concentrating on a different trifecta?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Correct, I'm simply done with the Amex Trifecta for now. I plan to use the fewest # of credits I can that are easiest to use for my situation. Any others will simply go unused and I'll be ok with that.

  • @nicholaswedgeworth8598
    @nicholaswedgeworth8598 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I’m a fan of this channel. But the title was a huge click bait.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks for the feedback 👍 Glad you like the channel.

  • @MrSleepyhead32
    @MrSleepyhead32 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The Platinum Card is hard to justify. It's a bad earnings card and it has so many credits that don't really give it an identity. It feels like one-third of the credits are there just to bloat the card's annual fee. The Gold Card is way more straightforward. It's basically just food with some travel in there.
    I'd rather just use the Gold + BBP card for earnings and use the Hilton Honors no AF card for hotel bookings and for that 5th night free for all points.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Amex Platinum = definitely bad at earning 😬
      Good setup w/ Gold + BBP + HH.

  • @Noneofthedays
    @Noneofthedays 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What did you get from Underarmour? I’ve heard good things.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Men's UA Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve shirt.

  • @chancefitzgerald7740
    @chancefitzgerald7740 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Amex lately sucks. I shifted to Chase as they have treated me better.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good to hear you've found a solid experience with Chase 👍

  • @sladesurfer
    @sladesurfer 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I cancelled all my Amex cards. lots of places I go to doesn't accept amex...

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      What are you using instead?

  • @khanscombe619
    @khanscombe619 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    💯. I’ll stay since I’ve been with them forever now.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      🏆

  • @kaina732
    @kaina732 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I just got the BBP and I got the Gold last year. I plan to keep both of these. Although lately it seems like we are always trying to meet welcome bonuses. I know Hawaiian is not the best redemption, but I fly that airline all the time. I am trying to switch to Southwest (using the Companion Pass) so I may be switching more of my spend to the Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Ink Business Cash. Just need the Ink Business Preferred to round it out.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Congrats on the 2 approvals 💯 Consistently meeting welcome offers is a great way to increase those points balances _fast!_ Good luck on the Ink Business Preferred if you decide to go for it this year.

    • @kaina732
      @kaina732 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkReese I have it planned for April/May 2024. Also getting my wife (P2) started with Hilton Surpass and now World of Hyatt.

  • @maccamracecar
    @maccamracecar 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Noticed Audible is in your monthly at 1:36 - they dropped this unfortunately - actually the reason I dropped the card.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yep it was a bummer for sure. I've just forgotten to move the subscription to another card 😬

  • @happyron
    @happyron 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Platinum isn't really that hard to me:
    The Walmart Credit, The Digital Entainment credit, and the Clear Credit are all automated and I don't think about it.
    The Uber Cash is pretty easy to remember since I use Uber or Uber eats every week.
    The Lounges are easy to remember, if I fly I use a lounge
    The Saks and the Hotel Credit are fun because they cause me to stay in places I might not otherwize stay in or buy something fun I might not otherwize buy.
    The flight credit is kinda a pain.
    So to me it's well worth it

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great to hear you find value in an easy way!

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      And that’s how they win and u lose tho. Wouldn’t u be better of saving and investing that $$? Life happens. I’m glad a stick to a strict budget it has given more opportunity and joy than aspirational travel

  • @sanborn-johnstonjasonm5183
    @sanborn-johnstonjasonm5183 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Were you using the amex blue business for personal reasons?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I have two.
      1st = yes, mix of personal + business.
      2nd = only business.

    • @sanborn-johnstonjasonm5183
      @sanborn-johnstonjasonm5183 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkReese I have the same. Just wondering if they flag at all for personal charges.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@sanborn-johnstonjasonm5183 - Not in my experience. They don't have a way to know if that gas / restaurant / travel purchase was for business or for personal use.
      That said, business cards are designed exclusively for business purposes per the terms. So, personal use is a breach of those terms. That said, everyone can make their own decisions.

  • @44fastgun
    @44fastgun 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    You want do away with sky high fees.....but you're not cancelling?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Correct. I'm still able to justify the fees, but I'm no longer using the Amex Trifecta as my default setup.

  • @jasonmccann257
    @jasonmccann257 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm coming up on my 1 year mark with my gold card. I've decided I'm going to be canceling it b/c it's just not going to fit my lifestyle in 2024. Does anyone know, will Amex let you cancel a card with a balance on it, or do you have a zero balance on the card before Amex will let you cancel a card?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      You can cancel a card with a balance on it. However, you must still pay the bill by the due date when you receive your statement.

    • @jasonmccann257
      @jasonmccann257 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @MarkReese thank you. That's good to know. I was just curious b/c I had heard that w/ Amex if you cancel a card. The balance for that card is due immediately in order to actually cancel the card.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@jasonmccann257 - I just reconfirmed with an Amex rep, who said you can pay your closed account balance at any time, including the statement due date.

    • @jasonmccann257
      @jasonmccann257 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkReese much appreciated!
      Rock on Mark🤙

  • @The_Turd_Ferguson
    @The_Turd_Ferguson 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Amex plat is worthless and most folks that have it just flex it. Terrible earner and credits most people dont use. And the hotel credit is over priced to begin with. You can get the same benefit with your branded/status or even using world elite mc or infinite visa. Lounge access is spotty at best. I only see idiots with that card outside of the airport.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Definitely one of the worst earning cards out there for everyday spend 😁

  • @CreasyEQ
    @CreasyEQ 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Reese man how long did it take you get all those 💳 💳.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I've been in the credit card game since ~ 2013.

    • @CreasyEQ
      @CreasyEQ 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkReese Thought about having multiple credit 💳 💳. But the way banks and interest are now. Interest, is supposed to be coming down 👇. I don't know if I want a pile of them now. I know I don't want alot of hard inquiries 💯

  • @Tony36847
    @Tony36847 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    IMHO the whole credit card game isn't worth the effort if you're just getting 1.1 cents per point. If that was my goal I'd just get the Citi double cash and be done

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Fair point 👍 However, I also take into account the volume of points earned. Historically, I've been able to earn a lot more Amex points than Citi points (at a faster rate, too).

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yeah reward pts game is med term game for me. 1-3 years. It’s hella annoying. And corporations race to destroy value for consumers while pretending opposite.

  • @jonclee
    @jonclee 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Kinda hard to shake the feeling this is the same video @thecreditfrog already made months ago.. but I guess it's a common conclusion to come to.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yep, for those of us who aren't big international travelers right now, the conclusion makes sense.

  • @Leoprieto74
    @Leoprieto74 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Wow, RJ converted you!!! 😅

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😁

  • @Noneofthedays
    @Noneofthedays 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Others may offer slightly better rewards, but I’ll call Amex over Chase or Citi any day. OR RATHER, I’ll just message them on their ultra-responsive chat feature.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Their customer support =🥇 Fortunately, Citi is improving; they've got an online chat now too.

    • @ddaniels6221
      @ddaniels6221 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      This is the reason I couldn't wait to get away from Capital One... thankful for them because their cards got me in the game to the point that I could get an AMEX or a Chase card, but their customer service is horrible.. I used to have a Venture card, so as great as their Venture X card sounds I refuse to get another card with them.

    • @newagain9964
      @newagain9964 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Why are u needing to contact ur card issuer anyways tho? lol

  • @robertm8380
    @robertm8380 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hilton Honors Amex no Annual fee is a great card

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      It sure is 💯

  • @jonathanm7442
    @jonathanm7442 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If Amex had better cash back rates and United as a partner I’d give it a try. For now I’m in the Chase gang

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      💯👍

  • @josequesada1234
    @josequesada1234 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    This video could have been an email. “I’m on team cash back hence Amex dead”.

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😁👍

  • @jefuryo
    @jefuryo 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    AMEX emails you reminders for these credits ;)

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      A nice feature!

    • @jefuryo
      @jefuryo 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@MarkReese yeah makes it less stressful

  • @user-lj5ri3gp5o
    @user-lj5ri3gp5o 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Wish I could give multiple thumbs ups...

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      👍👍👍

  • @jefuryo
    @jefuryo 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Oh let’s find out why ;)

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      💯

  • @thetsanation8664
    @thetsanation8664 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If you’re making 200K+ $1000 is nothing

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Income vs. expenses are always relative. However, regardless of what one earns, $1,000 burned means $1,000 not invested to grow.

  • @jetski335
    @jetski335 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    😊

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      😃

  • @Mr.CEO888
    @Mr.CEO888 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Awwww. You got your feelings hurt 😂😂😂

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😂

  • @SOXGATORS
    @SOXGATORS 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    👍🏻

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      👍

  • @levimachado
    @levimachado 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    you are not flying long haul, internationally or business... I guess you have a small kid or 2?

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Correct. I don't prioritize international travel right now and don't have kids.

  • @aaront936
    @aaront936 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Chase > Amex

    • @MarkReese
      @MarkReese  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😁