I guess i'm a little more simple-minded. They are near broke, and even if they have a good contingent deal in the works, there may be little reward to attending too many conferences until they have something exciting and new to say. Save the $ for the research, and any expenses related to deal-making if that is on the table, until there is something worth shouting from the rooftops. I dunno. Maybe. I do share your frustration though.