Dating apps are a social network and most are paid. The key is to allow people to use the money they paid in-app-purchases as social proof. Eg, someone can 'woo' you on Bumble with flowers, which makes them stand out from the crowd of mere right swipes.
That's not the way social proof works. I know that the flowers idea is just an example, but in general giving material things, even virtual gifts, to women is just not an effective seduction strategy. It's actually counterproductive in this day and age.
Agreed that virtual gifts may not be the best indication of wealth - we should look at conversion rates here - but studies generally show the same man standing with symbols of wealth is viewed as more attractive than one standing without them.
