hmm, very interesting threads.. here are some trends I have noticed:
an increase in:
Adult Webmaster Boards
Hosting Companies
Content Providers
etc.
Much much more webmaster-related services - I remember back in the day everyone posted on Netpond
with a few here and there, now there are so many boards I cannot keep up with them!
Also, I've noticed an increase in cheaters - granted there were always cheaters, I find nowadays much more people doing deceiving things, I guess its a sign of times where things get harder to make money and people want to take a short cut..
Either way, when it comes down to it - if you are creative, smart, and have good marketing skills, you should be fine making $$$