Just came across this component setting where it looks like any new free form table can have it applied by default (very bottom of image).  Yet to fully test but look promising: 

This is great - much appreciated.  Also made me think...do I really need the last 53 full weeks in view :). Thanks again!

I've just started using AA and found this thread with the exact same scenario.  As a new user I'm baffled this is a thing.  id built a report and when the new month ticked over my segments were not inherited by the new month.  Back to the drawing board.