Well, I suppose this thread touched on many aspects of the game and people's feelings as well.
I dislike the new banish ending, mainly because I may be very close with a rival, fighting for 3rd or 4th position. That 2 gem boost might be all I need to beat him/her to the punch and cross the line! That's blank now. (Though, I do suppose that keeps me from spending gems I should really save for something else.)
I don't mind if the 10m coins go to a less powerful character, and in fact like that aspect.
Thus, you have a mixed reaction from me. I'm not a paying client, but I have invested time and effort.
Overall this has been a thread worthy of the time it took to read. Thank you all for posting.
KA