Good to see things are slowly getting back to normal...

The Survey of Affluence and Wealth, conducted by American Express Publishing and Harrison Group, has found that spending on luxuries is set to rise by about eight percent this year, reaching $359 billion in 2011.   The survey did not include travel and vehicles, and polled only the wealthiest ten percent of American families; those who enjoy a discretionary income of six figures or more.  Those ten percent account for about fifty percent of all consumer spending in the country.  

For more details, head over to Pursuitist.

American Express Platinum Card continues to spoil its members.

As if all the benefits this plastic beast already offer weren't enough, American Express has announced that they are adding several additional perks for international travelers.  Robin Korn, Senior VP and General Manager of Consumer Charge Cards, noted that “with the launch of these new benefits, combined with the suite of existing ones, the Platinum Card is truly the passport to a premium travel experience."  No argument here.