Yes, you are correct in your assessment of the sportscard hobby, but none of the issues that you mention have anything to do with grading.

Too many sets and manufacturers is a function of supply/demand. Fewer card shows and attendees at the shows is a function of the internet. Dealers don't need to pay table fees, travel costs, etc. to set up at a show anymore, because ebay is available.

If you don't think graded cards are thriving, go to ebay and do a search of PSA and BGS. You know these are the two leading grading companies, and their existence has made the hobby a better way to trade on the internet.

Now, bogus grading companies have started up and offer higher grades than a card should receive. This is the place that leaders in the industry need to have a forum, similar to the Chip Board, to be a watchdog for collectors.

If I buy a BGS 9.5 1993 SP Alex Rodriguez rookie card, I know what I'm getting for my investment. When I see an ungraded chip on ebay from a buyer that I've never heard of selling for $2,000 and up, I can't be sure.