Premium Isn’t the Only Path to Credit Card Value

Auriemma recently published the Q1-2026 Cardbeat US report. The issue examines network tier impact on credit card acquisition, who really owns the co-brand cardholder relationship, and re-engaging inactive cardholders. Those interested in learning more about Auriemma’s research or about this issue should contact research@auriemma.group.

Topics include:

Whether credit cards meet needs
Response when card isn’t meeting needs
Primary factor when using / applying for cards
Likelihood to apply for a middle-market credit card
Most appealing type of rewards credit card value
Response to limited/hard-to-access premium benefits
Benefits that would motivate spend to reach a threshold
Surcharge responses and thresholds
Impact on usage if store card converted to co‑brand

From this report:

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Survey Methodology

This Auriemma Group study was conducted online within the US by an independent field service provider on behalf of Auriemma Group (Auriemma) in March 2026 among 800 adult credit cardholders. The number of interviews completed for both is sufficient to allow for statistical significance testing among sub-groups at the 95% confidence level ±5%, unless otherwise noted. The purpose of the research was not disclosed, nor did respondents know the criteria for qualifying.