I love credit cards so much!

[Lain]

hehehehhee, i made a bet with a friend that the day Chase CSP referral jumps to the 60k version, hes gonna advertise the hell out of it. He hasnt made a post of it yet. is the only travel blogger that hasnt mentioned it at all yet.

You mean like when he had an exclusive on the 120k Marriott offer for a hot second?

 

[wendow]

hehehehhee, i made a bet with a friend that the day Chase CSP referral jumps to the 60k version, hes gonna advertise the hell out of it. He hasnt made a post of it yet. is the only travel blogger that hasnt mentioned it at all yet.

Ok, so I don't follow any of this as much as some of you do...You mean that the 60k is not available as a referral, only a public offer, and TPG wants referrals, so he only advertises the 50k so that he can capture referrals? Don't you max out at 5 for the year? Surely he hits that in a month? Maybe I am overestimating how much traffic he has, or I am clearly missing something.

 

[3 DD love princesses]

Ok, so I don't follow any of this as much as some of you do...You mean that the 60k is not available as a referral, only a public offer, and TPG wants referrals, so he only advertises the 50k so that he can capture referrals? Don't you max out at 5 for the year? Surely he hits that in a month? Maybe I am overestimating how much traffic he has, or I am clearly missing something.

I sure he’s getting credit for the number if clicks he gets from links. He’s advertising for them.

 

[wendow]

I sure he’s getting credit for the number if clicks he gets from links. He’s advertising for them.

So, he doesn't max out on referrals like everyone else? I believe you all. Just curious how it works for these bloggers.

 

[Lain]

Ok, so I don't follow any of this as much as some of you do...You mean that the 60k is not available as a referral, only a public offer, and TPG wants referrals, so he only advertises the 50k so that he can capture referrals? Don't you max out at 5 for the year? Surely he hits that in a month? Maybe I am overestimating how much traffic he has, or I am clearly missing something.

So, he doesn't max out on referrals like everyone else? I believe you all. Just curious how it works for these bloggers.

Bankrate bought TPG a few years ago (I believe they also own MMS), so TPG is quite set $. However, the business generates revenue through affiliate marketing, and each of his affiliate links generates a share of revenue or pay per sale for each new customer. This isn’t small time referral clicks. It’s not in TPG’s financial interest to recommend any offers that don’t make money for his business or write about better offers that might divert readers from his affiliate links.

So for example, TPG has not written about the 60k UR/$95 AF CSP offer even though some of his readers might think that’s a better offer than the 50k UR/AF waived offer that his links make money on. Or why he doesn’t write about ways to get targeted for better Amex signup bonuses even though those are generally once per lifetime. His readers look to him as an expert, but he’s giving biased information and withholding valuable knowledge that could lead to better decisions all so the business can earn money for itself and it’s sponsors.

The reason why DoC gets so much love on /r/churning is because he’s not owned by a bank or other company, does not have affiliate links to credit cards, is transparent with best offers, and discloses his links (like for Amazon or eBay) but also makes you aware of your choice to go through something else that won’t make him money instead (like the JetBlue portal for Amazon or cashback sites for eBay).

 

[wendow]

Bankrate bought TPG a few years ago (I believe they also own MMS), so TPG is quite set $. However, the business generates revenue through affiliate marketing, and each of his affiliate links generates a share of revenue or pay per sale for each new customer. This isn’t small time referral clicks. It’s not in TPG’s financial interest to recommend any offers that don’t make money for his business or write about better offers that might divert readers from his affiliate links.

So for example, TPG has not written about the 60k UR/$95 AF CSP offer even though some of his readers might think that’s a better offer than the 50k UR/AF waived offer that his links make money on. Or why he doesn’t write about ways to get targeted for better Amex signup bonuses even though those are generally once per lifetime. His readers look to him as an expert, but he’s giving biased information and withholding valuable knowledge that could lead to better decisions all so the business can earn money for itself and it’s sponsors.

The reason why DoC gets so much love on /r/churning is because he’s not owned by a bank or other company, does not have affiliate links to credit cards, is transparent with best offers, and discloses his links (like for Amazon or eBay) but also makes you aware of your choice to go through something else that won’t make him money instead (like the JetBlue portal for Amazon or cashback sites for eBay).

I didn't know any of that! I'm glad you shared cause those of us who don't spend much time reading about this hobby outside of this thread would not know this kind of thing.

I do find DoC to be transparent, which I so appreciate. I have noticed him many times giving options for getting the best deal, even when it doesn't benefit him.

 

[Lain]

I didn't know any of that! I'm glad you shared cause those of us who don't spend much time reading about this hobby outside of this thread would not know this kind of thing.

I do find DoC to be transparent, which I so appreciate. I have noticed him many times giving options for getting the best deal, even when it doesn't benefit him.

Yeah, it’s the old adage, follow the money. If someone seems to be benefiting financially from the advice they’re giving you, you’ll want to take what they’re saying with a grain of salt and do your own due diligence so they don’t benefit at your expense.

 

[Albort]

Bankrate bought TPG a few years ago (I believe they also own MMS), so TPG is quite set $. However, the business generates revenue through affiliate marketing, and each of his affiliate links generates a share of revenue or pay per sale for each new customer. This isn’t small time referral clicks. It’s not in TPG’s financial interest to recommend any offers that don’t make money for his business or write about better offers that might divert readers from his affiliate links.

i used to read MMS but after reading about the best cards to use on amazon, they like completely dont mention a few other options... i removed MMS off my reading list now. They dont seem much popular(not much ppl commenting).
TPG is pretty good on some reviews. Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one.

 

[GlamMistress]

i used to read MMS but after reading about the best cards to use on amazon, they like completely dont mention a few other options... i removed MMS off my reading list now. They dont seem much popular(not much ppl commenting).
TPG is pretty good on some reviews. Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one.

Bankrate owns Million Mile Secrets, too (have since 2016).


If you're all interested in an honest and quirky miles and points blog, look at Travel Blogger Buzz. Run by a guy named George who is a Flyertalk legend of sorts. He rants about all the "pumpers" (his word for credit card shills) regularly. http://travelbloggerbuzz.com/ - you just need to click down to his posts that feature "the hobby."

http://travelbloggerbuzz.com/travel...-into-a-giant-credit-card-pumpization-scheme/

 

[calypso726]

I’m really surprised TPG would refer anyone to /r/churning. Anybody spending any amount of time there would see how many churners really hate the guy for being a shill who gives biased advice about which cards to get, misleads his readers to use his affiliate links that usually aren’t the best deal for them, all to line his own wallet.

ETA: I do read and even cite TPG occasionally because he can be a good source for news and things like how certain card [and hotel & airline] benefits work, but just be aware that his business does put into conflict making money for him and his bank sponsors and the best interests of his readers.

Yeah, he is a shill. If I recall correctly, Chase didn't even advertise the CSR. They just told TPG about it. I don't rely on his cc advice. However, I do rely on his blogs about how to get from point A to point B with points and miles and using partner awards.

Bankrate bought TPG a few years ago (I believe they also own MMS), so TPG is quite set $. However, the business generates revenue through affiliate marketing, and each of his affiliate links generates a share of revenue or pay per sale for each new customer. This isn’t small time referral clicks. It’s not in TPG’s financial interest to recommend any offers that don’t make money for his business or write about better offers that might divert readers from his affiliate links.

So for example, TPG has not written about the 60k UR/$95 AF CSP offer even though some of his readers might think that’s a better offer than the 50k UR/AF waived offer that his links make money on. Or why he doesn’t write about ways to get targeted for better Amex signup bonuses even though those are generally once per lifetime. His readers look to him as an expert, but he’s giving biased information and withholding valuable knowledge that could lead to better decisions all so the business can earn money for itself and it’s sponsors.

The reason why DoC gets so much love on /r/churning is because he’s not owned by a bank or other company, does not have affiliate links to credit cards, is transparent with best offers, and discloses his links (like for Amazon or eBay) but also makes you aware of your choice to go through something else that won’t make him money instead (like the JetBlue portal for Amazon or cashback sites for eBay).

Now that makes more sense. MMS used to give out info on the best links even if they were not his. His blog used to be really good, especially for the newbies. It began changing after he and Emily divorced. Now, it doesn't even look like the same blog.

i used to read MMS but after reading about the best cards to use on amazon, they like completely dont mention a few other options... i removed MMS off my reading list now. They dont seem much popular(not much ppl commenting).
TPG is pretty good on some reviews. Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one.

I agree. I find myself deleting most of the emails I get without even reading past the subject line. I still love OMAAT too. I don't know what's up with View From the Wing lately. Tons of emails everyday and most not very useful. I hate having to sift through multiple emails from him daily. Frequent Miler, Mile Value and Points Chaser are some that I am currently reading.

 

[GlamMistress]

Make sure to bookmark https://milesfeed.com/ in your browsers - that way you can scan every headline of every "major" blogger + Reddit quickly.

 

[Lain]

Make sure to bookmark https://milesfeed.com/ in your browsers - that way you can scan every headline of every "major" blogger + Reddit quickly.

I use pointsbuzz . com too.

 

[Judique]

Make sure to bookmark https://milesfeed.com/ in your browsers - that way you can scan every headline of every "major" blogger + Reddit quickly.

That's awesome! Thank you!

 

[KSR0330]

Thinking about getting the CIP this summer. To meet the MSR, I'll have to put a lot of non-business spending on the card, like groceries, car insurance, gift cards, maybe some WDW park tickets through UT. Will that be a problem? Do the business cards look at the type of spending you do?

 

[tink1970]

The reason why DoC gets so much love on /r/churning is because he’s not owned by a bank or other company, does not have affiliate links to credit cards, is transparent with best offers, and discloses his links (like for Amazon or eBay) but also makes you aware of your choice to go through something else that won’t make him money instead (like the JetBlue portal for Amazon or cashback sites for eBay).

I definitely use DOC if I'm needing help making a decision and also really appreciate the fact that he's not pushing ANY products. Makes him seem more trustworthy even though of course I don't know him and he could be a big scuzz bucket in real life (but I hope not!).

Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one

I love some of Lucky's reviews although I will roll my eyes when he starts discussing the champagne and/or wine list and is sad they don't have ----brands. If I'm looking at not well known airlines (to me) his reviews are helpful though.

If you're all interested in an honest and quirky miles and points blog, look at Travel Blogger Buzz. Run by a guy named George who is a Flyertalk legend of sorts. He rants about all the "pumpers" (his word for credit card shills) regularly. http://travelbloggerbuzz.com/ - you just need to click down to his posts that feature "the hobby."

Thanks for the link

It began changing after he and Emily divorced. Now, it doesn't even look like the same blog

Yep, divorce is expensive so maybe Bankrate helped mitigate the sting (?).

I read DoC, OMMAT and reneespoints (to keep up on Delta); keeping the latter two in perspective since they are definitely advertiser heavy.

Honestly, I trust @SouthFayetteFan, @Lain, @calypso726 and the rest of you motley crew more than the bloggers

 

[jhoannam]

Thinking about getting the CIP this summer. To meet the MSR, I'll have to put a lot of non-business spending on the card, like groceries, car insurance, gift cards, maybe some WDW park tickets through UT. Will that be a problem? Do the business cards look at the type of spending you do?

Chase can’t distinguish between personal and business transactions. Businesses purchase all those things you listed for various reason. You don’t need to worry about what you charge to your Chase Biz cards.

 

[disneymagicgirl]

I didn't know any of that! I'm glad you shared cause those of us who don't spend much time reading about this hobby outside of this thread would not know this kind of thing.

I do find DoC to be transparent, which I so appreciate. I have noticed him many times giving options for getting the best deal, even when it doesn't benefit him.

wow, I didn't know any of this either. I just know sometimes a couple of you on the board here make negative comments towards some of these guys...now I get why.

Thinking about getting the CIP this summer. To meet the MSR, I'll have to put a lot of non-business spending on the card, like groceries, car insurance, gift cards, maybe some WDW park tickets through UT. Will that be a problem? Do the business cards look at the type of spending you do?

I put anything and everything on it to meet min spend. Points just posted couple days ago...no issues.

Honestly, I trust @SouthFayetteFan, @Lain, @calypso726 and the rest of you motley crew more than the bloggers

^^^^ditto

 

[Lain]

Thinking about getting the CIP this summer. To meet the MSR, I'll have to put a lot of non-business spending on the card, like groceries, car insurance, gift cards, maybe some WDW park tickets through UT. Will that be a problem? Do the business cards look at the type of spending you do?

Just about any expense can find a justifiable reason to be considered a business expense. You go get that CIP and hit it with all you’ve got!

 

[StephPlum]

Weekly update on the hobby.

Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one

If you're all interested in an honest and quirky miles and points blog, look at Travel Blogger Buzz. Run by a guy named George who is a Flyertalk legend of sorts. He rants about all the "pumpers" (his word for credit card shills) regularly. http://travelbloggerbuzz.com/ - you just need to click down to his posts that feature "the hobby.

Frequent Miler, Mile Value and Points Chaser are some that I am currently reading.

Although im a big fan of OMAAT on that one

If you're all interested in an honest and quirky miles and points blog, look at Travel Blogger Buzz. Run by a guy named George who is a Flyertalk legend of sorts. He rants about all the "pumpers" (his word for credit card shills) regularly. http://travelbloggerbuzz.com/ - you just need to click down to his posts that feature "the hobby.

Frequent Miler, Mile Value and Points Chaser are some that I am currently reading.

OOH new bookmarks for reading. Thanks!

Mostly normal spending + DS's truck needing new tires, I am up to 3300 of 5000 on the CIP spend. I'll make the min spend well in advance of the 90 days so looking for what is next.

Sure thing is I am looking at the CSR/CSP double dip. But I would like to hold on that until later in June to use on a trip this summer and to space out Chase apps.

So what could I do before that? I am intrigued by the AMEX SPG Biz card. I know lots of people here value Starpoints. I think I need more DPs as I am not sure how I would use them. Trips this year are to Moab, UT and Cortez CO. Not hotbeds for Westins, Marriotts, Ritz Carltons! In the late summer going to Glacier NP and staying in the park. My normal hotels are Holiday Inns, Hampton Inns and Best Westerns as they are usually found in the out of the way places where NPs are at. My normal airline is Southwest which works well with URs. I am heading to Hawaii next year so there is a potential use for Starpoints either for hotels or airlines.

So the bottom line question - do I go after what is being called a high sign-up bonus for Starpoints even if I do not have a known use for them right now? or do I spend the 7K (MSR for SPG biz) on URs which I am sure I can use for my travel style?

 

[Lain]

^^^^ditto

Thanks @disneymagicgirl. I did feel bad the other day suggesting such an aggressive plan for the rest of the year and into next year for your DH. I probably would’ve done it myself if the CSR and CSP double dip were still available to me, but I don’t think I would’ve suggested the same for my wife. With the Chase shutdown stories, it’s very prudent to play it slower. Your plan works just as well by focusing on the SPG Biz, CIP, and some form of SW double dip for CP at the turn of the year, and putting off the CSP/CSR for next year if that double dip is still working.