"This means I can make a lateral (stack) move without having to revert back to "junior" status. " - Good. Because developers would reset or be unemployed every

"This means I can make a lateral (stack) move without having to revert back to "junior" status. " - Good. Because developers would reset or be unemployed every 5 years otherwise. I've made several stack switches without issue. Usually it involves switching languages at your current company, then using your current salary as leverage to get the next. The main barrier is HR, which you can get around using this method.