This is another one of those grey areas, I think, where is there no perfect answer.

To draw an analogy from the world of politics and elections:

a) Your vote benefits the recipient more than it will benefit you.

b) If you were fighting the same election, casting a vote for a more prominent candidate who is a  competitor for that same position will hurt you more than benefiting you.

c) If you vote for the right candidate-  because that is the right thing to do--- it might eventually benefit you, in a roundabout sort of manner.

So, I'd apply the same rules when casting your vote for a website (ie. giving out links)----do vote, but cast your vote with care!