This is a hot topic, and perticularly on the official EQ2 forums, but since i cant post there i figured i would communicate my opinion here :P
Now, "Need before Greed" is a very sticky topic, because are the Needy also Greedy? or are the Rich being Greedy? or semi rich ect, well they way i usually play, is let everyone play by there own moral code, i try not to force anyone to play by " My own personal ethics or lack of there of "
I personnally think than Need Before Greed as in if a mage item drops worth 2gp, and its lets say caster only but it can be sold, everyone has a fair amount to gain from it, through selling, using, gift to another friend, ect
Now if a NO TRADE item drops i would say only if you can use it, or not have a better version of it already due to its lack of value in the market as well as a non refundable loot ect..
Also i know this hasnt effected EQ2, but it was a hot topic effect in EQ 1, now what happens if your in a group an item drops lets say caster only... 3 casters in the group, and 2 have need of the item for stat value and the "clicky" value but the 3rd only would use the item for "clicky value" due to having better stat value items? Well i would say if it was no drop, its every casters fair game due to weather you are Lvl 65 pimped out mage with 5000+ hp or just 65 with 2200 HP you always strive to make yourself better than what you currently are..
Anyway thats just a gnomes view on that current topic, stay tuned for more! :P GNOMEPOWER!