Ally Bank – Credit Cards Not a Core Focus

Details Written by: RJ In a recent interview about cutting mortgage operations, Ally Banks top boss also tossed in a hint at credit cards: Rhodes also indicated in December that the credit-card business wasn’t a core focus for the bank. In an email to Banking Dive, Gilchrist said Ally was exploring “strategic alternatives” for its…

CFPB Removes Medical Debt From Credit Reports

Details Written by: RJ The CFPB has implemented a rule that will remove medical debt from credit reports:   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) finalized a rule that will remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of about 15 million Americans. The CFPB’s action will…

CFPB And Rewards Devaluations

Details Written by: RJ The CFBP has an interesting article about the devaluation of rewards points. Today’s circular warns that companies may violate federal law when they: Devalue earned rewards: Consumers make decisions on whether to open or use a credit card based on the value of card benefits and rewards conveyed by a company’s…

Chase Freedom Q1 2025 5x Categories

Details Written by: RJ Chase Q1 2025 5x categories: Norwegian Cruise Lines Grocery Stores (excluding Walmart and Target) Fitness Clubs & Gym Memberships Hair, Nails & Spa Services For the 15th anniversary of the Freedom card Chase is adding bonus categories each quarter: Valid 3/1/25 – 3/31/25. The $1,500 cap still applies Insurance payments Tax…

Alaska Airlines Launching Premium Credit Card

Details Written by: RJ Alaska Airlines is planning a new higher end credit card next year: Details Experience more with 3X miles on all eligible dining purchases3, unique currency flexibility, and same-day confirmed fee waivers. Elevate your journey with Alaska Lounge passes, Wi-Fi vouchers, accelerated paths to elite status, and an innovative travel disruption program.…

Apple Card Adds New Categories

Details Written by: RJ Apple has added two new options to the list of 3x categories. Booking.com – Online travel booking Chargepoint  – EV charging To trigger the 3x, you must pay via Apple Pay. Same as the current categories. Thoughts When the card first launched, I had assumed we’d see many more categories get…

BILT Rewards 2025 Roadmap

Details Written by: RJ BILT Rewards has Interesting read. Main take away is BILT would like us to know the business is more than the credit card. There’s also another mention of the feature to earn points on mortgage originations.   Credit card feed back With guidance from industry legends Ken Chenault (former American Express…

Discover IT Cash Q1 2025 5x Categories

Details Written by: RJ Discover has announced the Q1 2025 5x categories: Home improvement Dining Steaming As a reminder – Categories must be activated on each card starting today. It’s 5x on $1,500 in combined category spend for the quarter. Get a Discover IT card (referral) Thoughts The variety is nice. Home improvement stores often…