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Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card review

Justin da Rosa

Jan 24, 2025

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Overall rating

First year value

$2,133

Get this card if you:

  • travel often and want premium travel perks like lounge access
  • want to avoid paying foreign exchange fees
  • value a great welcome offer

Highlights

$2,133

First year value

up to $2500 in value

Welcome bonus

$399

Annual fee

Interest Rates

9.99%

Purchase APR

9.99%

Balance transfer APR

9.99%

Cash advance APR

Eligibility

Good

Recommended credit score

$12,000

Required annual personal income

Quick overview

If you fancy yourself a jet setter who enjoys the finer things in life, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card might be the choice for you. With it, you get extensive travel insurance and don’t have to pay foreign exchange fees. And, the best part, in this humble writer’s opinion? Access to over 1,200 Priority Pass and Plaza Premium airport lounges with 10 free visits a year (which is more than the standard four to six free passes most other cards provide). Rounding out the premium services are access to a concierge and exclusive access to events. You’ll also earn 2X the Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all eligible purchases, which you can redeem for travel, dining and more. That’s a lot of value packed into one tiny credit card.

However, it’s not all jet planes and caviar. The $399 annual fee will turn off many would-be globetrotters. If you don't travel often or spend enough to take full advantage of the rewards, this fee might not outweigh the benefits. Also, keep in mind that American Express isn't accepted everywhere, especially outside major urban areas. Still, if you're looking to make use of the card’s premium travel perks and can justify the fee, it's a great choice.

Compare Scotiabank American Express credit cards

Scotiabank American Express credit cards Scotiabank American Express® Card Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
Card Scotiabank American Express® Card Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
Annual fee $0 $120 $399
Welcome bonus up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months Earn up to $780* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points. up to $2,500* in value in the first 14 months, including up to 80,000 bonus Scene+ points.
Earn rate 3x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and more; 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores, including food delivery subscriptions, 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases, from movies, theatres, and select streaming services, 2 Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit like rideshares and transit and 1x Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other purchases 6x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and Foodland, 5x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery, food subscriptions, other eligible grocery stores, and eligible entertainment purposes, up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia, 3x Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options, including rideshares, buses and subways, as well as eligible select streaming services. and 1 Scene+ point on all other purchases. Earn up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Apply now Apply now Apply now Apply now
  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card to learn more.*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.

    *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.


  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.


Read more: Best Scotiabank credit cards

Who is this card for?

This card is designed for you, the frequent traveler who indulges in luxury while seeing the world. If you're jet-setting across borders regularly, you'll benefit from the waived foreign transaction fees and the comfort of over 1,200 VIP airport lounges. The comprehensive travel insurance adds a layer of security to your adventures. You're the type who will make the most of the Scene+ points, racking them up with your travel and everyday purchases, and redeeming them for more travel, dining out, or entertainment experiences.

If your calendar is marked with frequent international trips and you enjoy the exclusivity of premium services, this card is tailored for you. It's for the discerning spender who sees the annual fee as an investment into a lifestyle of convenience and luxury, ensuring each dollar spent brings you closer to your next getaway or experience. However, if your travels are infrequent or you're more conservative with your spending, you might find a better fit with a lower fee card.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card pros and cons

Pros

Pros

  • The card offers a competitive low interest rate on purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers

  • Comprehensive insurance coverage

  • Complimentary Airport lounge access

  • No foreign transaction fees

  • Ideal for travelers as it has no foreign transaction fees

  • Offers a substantial welcome bonus that includes up to 80,000 Scene+ points

  • Enjoy premium perks like Hertz #1 Club Gold membership and concierge services.

Cons

Cons

  • High annual fee: At $399, the annual fee is steep, which could offset the rewards and benefits for some cardholders

  • Below average rewards rate: Lower compared to other cards with similar or lower annual fees

  • Limited American Express acceptance: Especially outside major cities

  • Rewards potential: The net rewards potential is relatively low when considering the high annual fee

  • Non-transferable points: Scene+ points cannot be transferred to other rewards programs

Welcome bonus

  • up to $2,500* in value in the first 14 months, including up to 80,000 bonus Scene+ points.

  • To qualify for this Offer make sure to open a new Scotiabank Platinum American Express credit card account (“Account”) opened between January 3, 2025 and October 31, 2025.

    To qualify for the 80,000 bonus Scene+ points:

    4. Earn 60,000 bonus Scene+ points by making at least $3,000 in everyday eligible purchases in your first 3 months.
    5. Plus, for a limited time, you are eligible to earn a 20,000 Scene+ point bonus when you spend at least $10,000 in everyday eligible purchases in your first 14 months.

    Once you qualify, we’ll credit your account in 2 instalments:
    4. 60,000 bonus Scene+ points will be credited to the applicable Scene+ membership account approximately 8 weeks after the qualifying $3,000 in eligible purchases being posted to your Account within the first 3 months of Account opening.
    5. An additional 20,000 bonus Scene+ points will be credited to the applicable Scene+ membership account approximately 8 weeks after you have met the $10,000 spend threshold in your Account within the first 14 months of Account opening.

    Note: For joint Accounts, the applicable bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the Account of the borrower that completed the last transaction to meet the qualifying amount of eligible purchases in the case of the 60,000 Point Bonus and the Additional 20,000 Point Bonus.

    Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for this offer.

    See terms and conditions for full details.


How to earn points

  • Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
  • No maximum earning cap mentioned for the 2X points on purchases.
  • Earn up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia

Key benefits

  • No foreign transaction fee on any foreign currency purchases, including online shopping and when traveling abroad.
  • 10 complimentary airport lounge passes per year.
  • Access to Scene+ Travel for booking and redeeming travel with no restrictions.
  • Premium concierge services for various personal assistance tasks.

Insurance coverage

  • Travel emergency medical insurance: 31 days of coverage for those under 65, and 10 days for 65 and over up to $2,000,000 per insured person per trip.
  • Travel accident insurance: Up to $500,000 per insured person, $1,000,000 per occurrence.
  • Trip cancellation: $2,500 per insurance person, maximum $10,000 per trip.
  • Trip interruption: $5,000 per insurance person, maximum, $25,000 per trip.
  • Lost/delayed luggage insurance: Up to $1,000 per trip.
  • Hotel/motel burglary insurance: Up to $1,000 per burglary occurrence.
  • Rental car insurance: 48 days for vehicles up to $65,000.
  • Purchase security insurance: Up to 120 days post purchase, maximum $60,000 lifetime. 
  • Extended warranty insurance: Up to 2 years, maximum $60,000 lifetime
  • Flight delay: Up to $1,000 per insured person per trip for eligible expenses.
  • Purchase security: Coverage for 120 days from the date of purchase, up to $60,000 per lifetime.
  • Mobile device: Up to $1,000 coverage for new mobile devices against loss, theft, accidental damage, or mechanical failure.

Extras

  • Access to exclusive American Express offers and invites.
  • Access to VIP events.
  • Hertz #1 Club Gold Membership.

How this card compares

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card vs. The Platinum Card by American Express

up to 140k pts

Welcome Bonus

$931

First Year Value

$231

Annual Value

Welcome Bonus: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points* after spending $10,000 on your Card within your first 3 months as a new Platinum® Cardmember.*

Learn More Apply Now On American Express' Secure Site

The Scotiabank option has a lower annual fee of $399 compared to $799 for the Amex Platinum. While both cards offer generous welcome bonuses, the Amex Platinum's welcome offer surpasses the up to $2500 in value points offered by Scotiabank, albeit with a higher spending requirement to unlock the full bonus.

In terms of earning points, the Scotiabank card provides a flat rate of 2X the Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all eligible purchases, while the Amex Platinum offers 2X points on dining and food delivery purchases in Canada and 1X point on everything else. The Scotiabank card is less limiting than the Platinum Amex in terms of rewards. 

Both cards offer extensive insurance coverage, however, it's worth noting that the Amex Platinum doesn’t provide travel medical coverage for cardmembers over the age of 65, which is a significant consideration for older travellers. The Amex Platinum also boasts superior travel perks such as unlimited access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, elevated hotel services and a $100 NEXUS◊ statement credit – which are tailored for the frequent and luxury-focused traveler.

Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.

American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card vs. American Express® Gold Rewards Card

up to 60k pts

Welcome Bonus

$1,070

First Year Value

$0

Annual Value

Welcome Bonus: up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points* by earning 5,000 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000

Learn More Apply Now On American Express' Secure Site

The Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card and the American Express® Gold Rewards Card both offer excellent rewards, but they cater to different types of spenders. The Scotiabank Platinum Amex provides a higher earn rate on groceries, gas, dining, and entertainment, making it ideal for people who prioritize everyday spending categories. It also offers comprehensive travel insurance but comes with a high annual fee.

On the other hand, the Amex Gold Rewards Card is more flexible with a strong rewards program across multiple categories, especially travel-related purchases, and offers the ability to transfer points to airline partners. However, its earn rate on everyday purchases is lower than Scotiabank's card.

You might choose the Scotiabank card for its strong daily rewards and insurance, while frequent travelers looking for flexibility and travel partnerships might lean towards the Amex Gold Rewards Card despite its lower base earn rate.

Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.

American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card Vs. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card

up to $1,300* value

Welcome Bonus

$926

First Year Value

$0

Annual Value

Welcome Bonus: Earn up to $1,300* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points*

Learn More Apply Now On Scotiabank's Secure Site

Both cards are designed with the traveler in mind, but they cater to slightly different needs and spending habits. You know all about the Scotiabank American Express by now, so let’s look at the Passport Infinite Visa.

The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card  offers a more tiered approach, with 3x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, and Foodland, 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend at other eligible grocery stores, on dining, entertainment and daily transit options and 1x Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Both cards offer attractive travel benefits, but the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite costs less at just $150 per year. Though it comes with only 6 lounge passes per year, compared to the Amex’s 10 complimentary airport lounge passes per year. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual spending patterns and travel habits.

  • Rates, fees and other information are effective as of January 3, 2025. Subject to change.

    Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card to learn more.

    *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Is the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card worth it?

If you're a frequent traveler who enjoys the finer things in life, this card could be a perfect match. With its comprehensive travel insurance package, you're covered on multiple fronts, from emergency medical to trip cancellation. You'll love the comfort of access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, ensuring your travel starts on a luxurious note. The no foreign transaction fees save you money with every purchase abroad, making this card a savvy choice for international spending. However, weigh these perks against the $399 annual fee, which could be justified if you take full advantage of the card's benefits.

Now, consider your spending habits and rewards potential. You earn two Scene+ points for every dollar spent, which can accumulate quickly if you're a high spender. The points you earn can unlock a world of travel, entertainment and more, but it's crucial to assess if your spending will earn enough rewards to offset the annual fee. If you're not a big spender or a frequent traveler, the card's benefits might not outweigh the costs. In that case, you might want to look for a card with a lower fee and a rewards structure that better aligns with your lifestyle. 

  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card to learn more.*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

FAQs

  • What are the main benefits of the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card?

    +

    The card shines for travelers, offering no foreign transaction fees, comprehensive travel insurance and VIP lounge access with Priority Pass. You'll also earn Scene+ points on purchases, enjoy premium concierge services and get exclusive access to events and luxury hotels.

  • How does the Scene+ rewards program work with the Scotiabank Amex Platinum?

    +

    Earn Scene+ points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. These points are redeemable for travel, dining and entertainment, with no earning cap. Points don't expire, and you can boost your balance through promotions and travel bookings via Scene+ Travel.

  • Is the Scotiabank Platinum Amex's annual fee worth it?

    +

    The card's value hinges on your lifestyle. Frequent travelers and those who spend abroad could find the fee worthwhile, thanks to the travel perks and savings on foreign transaction fees. If your spending is modest or travel is infrequent, a card with a lower fee might be more beneficial.

  • American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Justin da Rosa Freelance Writer

Justin is a writer and editor who has been covering personal finance for over 10 years. He's written for companies such as KOHO, Ratehub, BMO, Zoocasa, and Questrade, among others. Justin also created a course in Content Creation, which he taught at York University for four years. When not writing, Justin can be found at a live concert, on the golf course, riding a motorcycle, or sailing.

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