I can't speak to what it was earlier, as I have only been playing since mid 2021. The new CL cards have made it much harder for all players now, no matter the league, evidenced by me beating people who have far stronger old sets than me and experience using them. But, it will balance in time I suspect.
I know a few people who are leasing and have returned to playing because of the new rewards, but I am not sure of all the intricacies around it.
But, on a side note based on what you quoted - just think about what the average person is learning about economics through this and in most cases, those people would have little chance of learning it otherwise. Sure, you can read about it, but interacting with an economy is far better and valuable.