If you’ve been eyeing Citi’s new premium cards because of the buzz around American Airlines transfers, don’t be fooled into thinking you need to shell out $595 for elite benefits. Citi quietly gave its Strata Premier card — just $95/year — access to 1:1 AA point transfers, making it one of the best value travel cards of 2025. In this post, I break down why Strata Premier outshines Citi’s own Elite card, how it stacks up against Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum, and why smart travelers should focus on value, not hype.

Big changes are coming to the Amex Platinum in 2025—and seasoned points travelers are paying attention. With rumors of expanded lounge access, new lifestyle credits, and a higher annual fee, the card is evolving fast. But is it keeping pace with competitors like the Chase Sapphire Reserve? In this breakdown, we compare the rumored upgrades and help you decide if the revamped Platinum still earns its place in your wallet.