I'm fairly confident that there is actually a bug. I have lost more perks than a plane cost initially on numerous occasions. This includes waiting for the roster to flesh out and perk multiplier to stabilize.
What evidence do you require? Obviously screenshots alone will not prove it. Will an AH film show perk multiplier? How long after one enters the arena can one assume the perk costs are correct?
I will provide whatever evidence you require if you specify it.
g00b