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Why Amex MR Points Are the Best Starting Currency in Canada
Most flexible points in Canada. Transfer 1:1 to Aeroplan, 1:1.2 to Marriott Bonvoy, plus partners like British Airways Avios and Hilton Honors.
You're not locked in. Unlike co-branded cards (TD Aeroplan, Bonvoy), MR points can move to whichever program offers the best redemption at the time you book.
Real value range: 2–5+ cents per point on transfer partner redemptions vs. ~1 cent for statement credits. Same points, 2–5x the value.
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TL;DR — For most Canadians the Amex Cobalt wins on ongoing earn (5x grocery + dining), while the Gold Rewards has the strongest welcome bonus per dollar of fee. Adjust the spending profile below to see your own numbers.
If you want all three personal welcome bonuses from Green, Gold, and Platinum:
Green → Gold → Platinum (in that exact order)
Why: Amex's bonus eligibility rules generally prevent you from earning the welcome bonus on a card you've upgraded to. Applying for each as a new application preserves eligibility.
Note: Amex's terms can change — always check the offer details before applying.
Note on business cards: Business income — even modest — opens up additional MR earning routes (Business Gold, Business Platinum) with separate welcome bonuses. "Business" doesn't have to mean a registered corporation; sole proprietorships, freelancers, side hustles, and gig income often qualify. If you've ever earned income outside a T4, this category is worth exploring.
