Citi launches Strata Elite Card to rival Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire

After years on the sidelines, Citi is stepping back into the premium credit card arena with the launch of its new Strata Elite Card, a direct answer to Chase’s Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum Card. With a clear focus on travel, dining, and high-end perks, Citi is betting big on its new offering—and hoping to reclaim relevance in a highly competitive space.

While Citi has long maintained a presence in the premium space through its now-discontinued Prestige Card, the Strata Elite marks a fresh and modernized approach aimed at today’s luxury-minded consumer. According to Pam Habner, head of U.S. branded cards and lending at Citi, the new card was designed to be “the best card for premium customers who have a passion for travel and dining.”

Value-Packed for the Modern Traveler

The Strata Elite Card carries an annual fee of $595—comparable to its rivals—but Citi claims it delivers a total annual value of $1,500. That value includes a $300 hotel credit, a $200 “splurge” credit usable with select brands like Best Buy or American Airlines, a $200 Blacklane chauffeur credit, and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement.

The travel-centric benefits don’t stop there. Citi has long partnered with American Airlines, and the Strata Elite continues to leverage that relationship with four Admirals Club lounge passes annually. In terms of points, cardholders earn:

• 12x points when booking hotels, car rentals, or attractions through Citi’s travel portal
• 6x points on flights and at select restaurants (during specific times)

These earnings place the Strata Elite squarely among the top-tier cards when it comes to travel rewards.

Designed by Data

Habner emphasized that the card’s design was driven by extensive research and consumer feedback. “While Citi’s previous premium card was designed for its time,” she said, “the new card meets the needs of the modern premium customer.” That includes not just flashy perks, but thoughtful ones—designed to be used, not just admired.

The Competitive Landscape

Chase and American Express have recently refreshed their own premium cards, adding benefits and revisiting fee structures. Citi’s move is timely. With affluent travelers eager to make up for lost time post-pandemic and looking for real value in their spending, the Strata Elite’s mix of flexible travel perks, experiential credits, and lounge access may resonate with a newly energized demographic.

More importantly, Citi claims its card delivers the “highest reward potential on the market.” That’s a bold statement in a crowded field—but one that could turn heads among high spenders seeking a new go-to rewards card.

Final Thoughts

Citi’s return to the premium credit card space with the Strata Elite feels less like a comeback and more like a calculated reinvention. For consumers who live for travel and premium experiences—and want to be rewarded well for it—the Strata Elite may just be the contender to beat.