Then there's no point in trying. No one gives out merits. They like to keep them as trophies or use them to get attention. Giving them more wont change that. And the idea of trying t make money in a forum about currency is perfectly natural. I think you're going to see a sharp decline in people that even use this site.
Stay relax body, this new meta will help the forum clean and respected! Controlling a spam post will give the forum untouchable and more new member will come because of their securities. Admins are trying best just to make people here simple, not only posting nonsense and this way the forum will be in big respect. Forget merits, and keep helping everyone. Time will come they will acknowledge your effort in helping everyone you could.