Hey spannersatcx, I think that we agree on remote for arrival and contact for departure, the only thing I would say is that most airports charge for parking regardless of the stand be it remote or contact, also these costs are minimal, ie. Pence per MTOW per hour.
Also, at many major Hubs, which was the premise of the question, a remote stand is often closer to a live taxi way than those on the front, and also less chance of ramp congestion, also often self maneuverable reducing manpower. I suppose to be fair this is one of those scenarios that have endless for's and against's
