The last I heard of the elite card is it was floundering in accounting scandals, lack of interest, facilities cut backs, and there was talk about a possible repositioning / light version. But I haven't heard anything new for months. Anyone know what they are up to? When I pass their building in Bangkok I see it is undergoing major renovation.

Well, no surprise about the elite card having problems.

If they happen to be reading this, I have this suggestion:

The five year no hassle visa is very appealing to a lot of people.

Lower the price of the card to half a million baht and make the five year visa the main feature of the card.

There would be little risk to Thailand for this.

Many would use this to stay in Thailand long term, but anyone who could afford that much for a visa has a low probability of becoming a burden to Thailand, and many such people would be a great economic benefit.