They're still pushed for the reasons you mentioned, but I think an experiential or specialty shop gift card - ideally something that the person would consider an indulgence and wouldn't go to on their own - can be a fine gift. The recipient "gets" the experience of shopping without guilt/thriftiness, and they pick something they like within the bounds of the gift. E.g. you could give somebody a certificate to a small Etsy seller and they can pick jewelry that matches their outfits, or to a fancy truffle shop and they will avoid buying flavors they don't particularly like. Coupon for glassblowing or cooking class? Cool gift. But it's got to demonstrate thought, a Target gift card sucks and multi-store gift cards like the picture are just money with extra steps