On April 14th, CNBC reported that the world's biggest online retailer had informed members of its affiliate program, known as Amazon Associates, that it will cut commission rates, starting on April 21st. Amazon's affiliate program, which allows members to link to products on the site in exchange for a share of the transaction, is an engine that has allowed the retailer to grow in highly competitive categories. Cuts in the commission range by category, but some sites are likely to see a more than 50% drop in payout.