At this point it's not likely that leagues will be bringing on new unless in pairs to keep leagues even or as an entirely new regional league. So it's time to bring out some learnings for 24/25 adds.
GA + DPL (if you include DPL Open) = 71
ECNL + ECRL = 30
Neither league demoted anyone.
From a business revenue perspective GA adding 41 more clubs than ECNL will translate into more money. But, does more $$$ trump exclusivity? It likely takes much more resources to manage new clubs over established clubs at events and in league.
For the top clubs in both GA and ECNL nothing changes. With a larger base of paying customers GA would be able to spend more on Finals. But, they'll also need to do more showcases to highlight all teams in the base.
Overall GA is doing what's required to grow and expand. ECNL is betting on exclusivity and ability of member clubs. Both are strong tactics to capitalize on the growing base of female youth soccer talent.
As long as everthing continues on the current path youth soccer league wars aren't going to end anytime soon. However an outside influence (NWSL Next) could completely change the entire landscape.
My biggest takeaway is that it's very obvious that ECNL was/is undeserving the girls. ECNL had the opportunity to be the single league for all high level play. GA being able to carve a niche out of the youth market just shows that there's many more customers to be had.