The fact that they only had $6 million in income doesn't mean they don't have $40 million in cash reserves built-up from several years. Remember, they had the $50 million dollars available to buy Cryptic - they've also been repurchasing their Stock over the last few years: 4 million shares, IIRC. Also, keep in mind that 162 was Net Income - after all expenses. Their Gross Income was $474 million - which means they have around $40 million per month to deal with development and other expenses.

Pre-VA, I'd agree with you for the most part. Anything you're crafting is going to be more just to increase your general research skill, having decent items for your level is just side benefit before you've outleveled them in a few hours. At VA, I disagree, at least from the console perspective. It can take a long time to find a set of consoles better than MK XI rares. It's also easy access to any kits you might want for you and friends, even though you can get them from elsewhere.

I agree that the dilithium cost is hurting crafting. Perhaps not have killed it, but it's definitely helping load the gun and steadying the aim.

As for the original topic. People who buy lifetime I think should probably get it from the subscription date. They're not exactly about the pay for more months, so why not? It'll be a bit of incentive for people to go lifer, even if they're 500 days in but have been playing for 3 years. But for recurring subscribers, no. In the end though, I do think the subscription rewards could do with some improvement.

1ST ! Take care of accounts you already have.. .Lesson one
Two account errors in active after billing cleared credit

Subscribed For: 721 Days
Subscription Status: Inactive
Create / Manage Subscriptions

last time ticker stopped at 701..

now OWED 2-3 months of Stipends.. since account conversion

ZEN in bank frozen at 1934 .. for STO have not used STO C-store since not seeing stipend
used champions c-store and i'm happy with all my purchases.. do not like zen separation between gold star and silver champions but understand.. you wish us not to buy champions items via our sto stipend..