Definitely a good way to go for people just starting out, especially when it comes to building a name and gaining experience putting songs together. There comes a point for each individual though (and that totally depends on each individual) where you realize that you've got enough experience and your music is good enough, where you don't NEED to be giving out tracks anymore.
I do understand from an artist's perspective though. Studio time (even home studios) can be pricey if the budget is tight. Plus I know SOME producers are delusional about what they think they can charge. I don't charge alot for beats, so I don't think it's unreasonable. But at the end of the day, if you aren't willing to invest at all in yourself and your music, why will anyone else take it seriously? I have been at it for a while now and have invested alot of time and money into equipment. So I guess it all depends where you're at in your career.