I remember the days when I bought credits, then student loans hit me hard
Not all members use grants. Some actually prefer loans with private banking. I view this as an alternative for the low tiers.
Yea those low tiers sure can buy credits $9m each. Not everybody has the option to exchange irl cash for credits, which I assume you have the privilege of.
Currently being raided by three 27-29 city nations from Arrgh with a vengeance, I think the system now is fine. Yea I know I don't stand a chance (17 cities against at least 10 more than me multiply by three) but it was my fault for building 20k tanks which brought my score in their range.