AVN Media Network has announced the discontinuation of all monetization features on AVNStars.com and GayVNStars.com due to banking discrimination, effective January 1, 2022. The platform will shift to offering only free content, continuing to support the fan-voted AVN and GayVN Awards. This decision comes after numerous corporate accounts were shuttered, reflecting broader issues of banking discrimination against the adult industry. Forum members have expressed a range of emotions from disappointment to anger, highlighting the impact on their income and the broader implications for content creators in the adult industry.
- Members are reacting to the sudden change, with some planning to close their accounts due to the lack of traffic and monetization opportunities.
- Many express frustration over the short notice given for content creators to adapt, and concerns about finding reliable platforms that do not face similar banking issues.
- Discussion includes the challenges of adhering to new regulations and the increased scrutiny from payment processors and banks.
- There is a notable shift of creators moving to other platforms, such as LoyalFans and JustForFans, in search of stability and better support for adult content creators.
- Concerns are also raised about the future of content monetization and the need for platforms to adapt to stringent regulations while supporting creators.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by adult content creators in navigating the financial and regulatory landscape, and the community's resilience in seeking new avenues to continue their work.