[merlyn]

As someone that does run an ISP and helps run an IXP, it matters nothing to me if somebody has a 32-bit ASN vs a 16-bit ASN.

Sure, I can see 6939 or 701 and know instantly who that is, but in the end, it matters nothing for the other 98% of ASNs I don't recognize on sight and who they might be behind them.

Anybody that is paying money for a "vanity" ASN is just doing it for self-ego stroking. To the people doing the work, it doesn't matter one iota.