The premium and exclusive metal offering from American Express, the Platinum Charge Card, has been revamped with exciting new features and benefits. These include elite tier memberships like Times Prime ACE, Postcard Hotels’ Platinum Status, and Accor Traveller Membership. Those who are able to make enough spending shall also be eligible for a renewal fee benefit of ₹35,000. However, with these added perks comes an increase in both the joining and annual fees. New applicants will now be charged ₹66,000 + GST (approximately ₹77,880) per year for the card.
Let’s dive into all the new features and other changes that are now applicable to the American Express Platinum Charge Card.
Three New Complimentary Elite Memberships (No Qualifying Criteria)
Accor Plus Traveller Tier
This membership, worth ₹11,800, allows cardholders to enjoy multiple benefits at Accor Hotels, including 50% off meals, early access to hotel promotions, 15% off drinks across Asia, and member-exclusive rates.
The Postcard Hotels Sunshine Club (Platinum Tier)
American Express Platinum cardholders receive exclusive benefits through Postcard Hotels’ Platinum Membership, which includes:
- 7% cashback as Sunshine Points on total spending (excluding taxes) when using the American Express Platinum Card at Postcard Hotels.
- Complimentary laundry service is available during all stays across Postcard Hotels.
- Anytime check-in and check-out, providing flexibility throughout the stay.
- Anytime breakfast service is available for the entire duration of the stay.
- Unlimited cocktails or drinks inspired by the local region are included during the stay.
The Postcard Hotels – Sunshine Club Membership is valid for two years from the date of enrollment.
I Prefer Titanium Membership
As part of the enhanced benefits associated with the American Express Platinum Charge Card, card members will now enjoy the I Prefer Titanium Membership in the I Prefer Hotel Rewards program. This prestigious membership offers exclusive advantages, including higher points earning rates on eligible stays, room upgrades, early check-in, and late check-out.
Apply now for the all-new AmEx Platinum Charge Card through the link below to receive a special limited-edition playing card set designed by Manish Malhotra, along with 10,000 bonus Membership Reward points. Get this exclusive metal card and enjoy annual benefits upto ₹4,50,000.
Addition of Renewal Benefit
Previously, there were no benefits or attractive offers for renewing the American Express Platinum Charge Card. Now, cardholders will receive vouchers from top brands such as Taj Hotels, Postcard Hotels, and Reliance Brands Limited worth ₹35,000 upon card renewal. This benefit will be unlocked after making spends of ₹20 lakh in a card anniversary year.
No More Birthday Benefit
American Express has discontinued the Taj voucher birthday benefit previously offered with the Platinum Charge Card. This is one of the most disappointing aspects of the card’s revamping.
Other Worthy Mentions
- Buy one ticket and get a discount of up to ₹500 on the second ticket. This offer is valid once per month at PVR and Inox, and it includes a complimentary F&B voucher.
- Enjoy a 12-month complimentary membership of OTT, publications, and discount offers with Times Ace Membership.
Bottom Line
Some time ago, it was announced that the American Express Platinum Charge Card would undergo a restructuring of its fees and benefits. The fee was increased by 10%, and while new perks were introduced, some existing benefits, such as the birthday benefit, were removed. Opinions on these changes vary. While some users are disappointed, others feel that the new benefits justify the increase.
Regardless of these differing views, the revamped American Express Platinum Metal Card remains one of the most luxurious offerings in the country, carrying the hallmark of exclusivity that AmEx is known for.