How does the "Hacker" economy work?

http://www.informationweek.com/security/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=197004939&pgno=1&queryText=

In this class we will distinguish between the terms hacker and cracker, this story uses the term Hacker incorrectly technically but in the way that the general public would expect.  This is a really good and detailed look at how the 'scene' works.  It's BIG business these days.  If you find it interesting, make sure you read the sidebar too.