<i>And it creates a feedback loop: TechCrunch is the most-reputed site because of its scoops. Startups offer TechCrunch scoops because it's the most-reputed site.</i><p>Jumping to the conclusion that the end of TechCrunch is a good thing from that observation is bizarre. You could say the same thing about almost any major site, like Reddit or even Hacker News. HN has a good reputation and large userbase because it has so many awesome links. Why does it get so many awesome links? Because of its good reputation and large userbase. Not exactly a good reason to wish something dead though.
Exactly who would this be good for besides the other publications?<p>If it's not Techcrunch that you have to cold email then it will be Venturebeat, AllThingsD, Forbes, CNN, etc.<p>Startups need PR (just like most other companies), so removing TC from the equation will only push that energy elsewhere.
Typical outside-the-bubble-looking-in thinking TechCrunch is some kind of kingmaker in the valley. In reality, the only thing TC truly helps with is fundraising, and that's far from an exclusive.