Bill D - Sorry for the delay in answering but I have been out gigging!

Use of PEG like anything depends on your needs.
In this case I was advising on 'slices' thru a tree trunk.
Use of PEG would prevent cracking & also retain the bark (if required) & is ideal for this use.
'really use only oil finishes since PEG is a wax material' is nonsense as there are many modern finishes which are compatible.
Rustins Plastic Finish is ideal & again is perfect for a table.
To describe the process as 'tedious & slow' is to misrepresent as to season (stabilise) wood can take years as stated above. PEG takes days!

Also for your information, 25yrs ago I treated freshly cut cherry logs with PEG. From the logs I made goblets & fruit bowls & they have not 'moved'. The treatment took about 10days & was done to prevent any danger of checking which is a possibility when turning green wood & then drying.

Like any other 'tool' it has limitations but I suggest if you have not tried it then give it a go. You will find it useful.