I've been following this thread and, like others, was initially shocked at the points capping being introduced and how it would limit my ability to earn QFF points using my Earth Platinum Plus card, as I have been doing. I was somewhat interested to hear that the Black cards were going to be introduced, though there seems to be some conjecture, confusion, uncertainty and differences between who will be getting what, when and for how much. And it does seem that Westpac is doing a poor job of getting all the information out in a timely and accurate fashion.
However, that said, for me at least, I don't see the need to be grabbing the scissors this week to cut up my card and discontinue its use right now. I've got at least 2 months where I can still earn points without cap, so I don't feel there's any need to rush my decision.
Also, I haven't yet received any postal mail regarding any of the changes... another reason I'm grateful for the information available on this forum. At least I know it's coming and I know that there are variations in the communication that is yet to come, and I'll be interested to see what I will be offered, compared to what others have posted here.
Until the full information for the Black product is available, I certainly won't be making any rash decisions. I'm sure all the correct information will come out in the fullness of time. Even when I call a Call Centre to seek out information, I always keep in mind that each person on the end may or may not have the correct and up-to-date information. Perhaps they are lazy operators, and don't read all the information updates that come out etc. A bit like a Tax Agent - you hope that you get one that is on top of all the latest changes and ways to get the best outcome, but sometimes they just don't know everything that is changing.
Yes, if your annual fee is due soon, then you may feel some pressure to make a decision, though I'm sure there'd always be an option to be able to ask for refunds etc. if you choose to cancel later. As a wise friend once taught me, "it's always worth asking the question".
I for one am going to continue to use my Earth Amex card until the changes, and in the meantime, I hope I do receive an offer for the Earth Black card, and that it will offer me favourable conditions. I hope that others don't make a premature decision without all the most accurate information. And even then, once things settle in the next couple of months, and if it's clear that the bank isn't being as generous to some with its offer of the Black cards, I'm sure the information gleaned from this forum may empower some to be able to contact the bank and request conditions which are suitable to them.
Of course, YMMV.
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