During these harsh economic times many affiliate marketing niche are on the decrease which niches do you believe is still steady and growing?
The adult niche will always be profitable. In fact, it tends to do even better during hard times. Same goes for gambling, to a lesser extent.
During the recession there are some niches which clearly are hot. Mortgages, real estate, loans and making money. Check Google Trends and see their popularity. Try pushing other products around the upcoming holidays. Give discounts and bonuses. Around New Year's Resolution people make commitments of changing their lifes like losing weight and quitting smoking.