A subscription model seems appropriate when the value accrues to the buyer over time without regard to the level of effort expended by the seller.
As a buyer, I care about my cost and the value I receive. I don’t demand to see proof of costs incurred or effort expended on the part of the seller to understand whether I got value in excess of my cost.
When I pay my house insurance or mortgage, I don’t ask the insurer or bank to show me any proof of anything. They’re not rent-seeking in economic terms.
