American Express adds Leading Hotels of the World as new Membership Rewards transfer partner

American Express has introduced the Leaders Club of Leading Hotels of the World as a new 4:1 transfer partner for its Membership Rewards points. Transfers to the hotel program are processed instantly, though users must cover taxes and fees that are not included in the points redemption. In a test booking, a member transferred points to stay three nights at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo for just under 20,000 points per night, incurring roughly $300 in additional taxes and fees.

The change also affects holders of the American Express Platinum Card, which offers complimentary Sterling Club status. To activate the status, the email on the Amex account must match the Leaders Club profile, and the complimentary upgrades apply only to paid‑rate bookings, not award stays.