If the devs want to keep crafters and gatherers out of end game and their precious dungeons, then so be it. However, they should at least do something to keep us entertained, even in a less than ideal economy.
I think it would be potential fun and entertaining if they incorporated some sort of in game system that generated some sort of "artificial demand." That way the economy wouldn't be totally reliant on a top heavy player base. Something along the lines of turning in batch commissions to "help the war effort" or something like that. Players could be rewarded with special crafting tomestones, and could be used to get special equipment and materials. If implemented correctly, give players the excuse to buy up and use up materials, keep their surplus off the market board, and give players somewhere to turn in their stuff when other players don't need it. NPCs would always be interested in taking it off your hands.
Just an idea.
