DD/DDF has always been a for-profit business, and rightfully so.
DDF has 0 ads and this is one of the few ways to make money from the forums along with referral links.
No cash back sites are allowed to be posted, despite the fact that they can offer a better deal.
I don't see how this exclusive agreement is any different.
There are also full disclosures posted so you can be aware.
If you don't like it here, good luck, find another place to discuss.
This is their house and their rules.
Let Dan/JJ know that this is a dealbreaker for you, but don't curse them out or create any conspiracies.
Use whatsapp, a different forum (which will likely never exist), or find people to discuss with.