In this episode of 'Stack Your Points,' the hosts conduct a year-end review of 2025, discussing standout credit card issuers, notable cards, and major events in the credit card industry. The episode highlights US Bank’s failures, Citi’s partnership with American Airlines, and Chase’s missteps with the Sapphire Reserve refresh. The hosts debate future potential refreshes for cards like the American Express Green and Chase Sapphire Preferred and predict which cards might get nerfed. They delve into the implications of the Discover payment network acquisition by Capital One and explore potential moves by other major banks. Speculations include the evolution of Bilts card lineup, cardless as Bilts next issuer, and strategies various banks may adopt in the constantly changing financial landscape. The episode also touches on macroeconomic concerns and their impact on credit card industry strategies.
00:00 Introduction and Year-End Review
00:28 Superlatives and Standout Issuers of 2025
01:25 US Bank's Troubles and Industry Reactions
03:42 Citi and American Airlines Partnership
06:07 Amex and Chase: Strategic Moves and Refreshes
19:16 Credit Card Strategies and Best Cards of the Year
24:41 Disappointments and Underperforming Cards
31:27 Best Credits and Easy-to-Use Benefits
44:46 Best No Annual Fee Credit Cards
45:05 Wells Fargo's Transfer Partners
46:14 Speculations on Wells Fargo's Future Moves
46:58 Comparing Travel Credit Cards
52:15 Bank of America's Unique Strategy
56:58 Citi's Strata Elite and Travel Strategies
01:05:44 Evaluating Airline Loyalty Programs
01:11:09 Credit Card Refresh Predictions
01:23:32 The Ultimate Modular Credit Card
01:25:02 Capital One's Strategic Moves
01:25:53 Hypothetical Bank Acquisitions
01:27:18 The Future of Payment Networks
01:35:57 Apple's Next CEO
01:40:36 Speculations on the Apple Card
01:45:37 Predictions for 2026 Credit Cards
02:00:19 Conclusion and Member Shoutouts