It's a good thing you guys aren't in charge of the game. What kind of CEO would simply let cash reserves build up making 1% interest?
While there's no doubt AFLX and AFLW are not aimed at our demographic, the AFL is not focusing on us, and nor should they be. We're already a customer and one that will decrease in value over the next little while. Their job is to grow the game, which means expand the audience. Debate the fiscal wisdom of AFLW all you like, but it will 100% be a money maker over time as women join clubs, watch games and drive up the value of both the men's and women's TV rights.
Likewise, AFLX was the right idea, maybe not the right time. There's absolutely value in developing a game that can be played anywhere. AFLX-like games are the dominant form here in the US. Even a small cut into the US sports TV market could generate decent revenues. Will everything work? No. Is it worth experimenting? For sure. Do the AFL give a *smile* if some 50 year old Richmond supporters like it or not - No way, couldn't care less, and nor should they.
Overall the AFL Executive has done a pretty great job over a long period of time. The game is in a good place.
Now would extra cash be handy right now? Sure. But they'll be able to borrow it (likely secured by the government), which is exactly where you should be as a company when interest rates are bugger-all. The idea that the AFL should have a couple of hundred million squirreled away for a rainy day is nonsense and I'm sure you guys know that.