If it's something only run like once ever, I can see the appeal for no trades for sure. But if it's ran like every year, I see no reason to not do trades. Otherwise it'll get super stale with the same characters in the top 10 every year.
Plus, I like the bonding and user interaction that trades bring as well. Unlikely alliances and new friendships made.
It doesn't happen as much these days, but back when Board 8 was more popular and Save Mys were happening all the time, it was a lot of fun becoming part of alliances and working together with other people to further our favorites.
