I don't think top ATV actors have the intention of taking bad roles when they switch over to TVB. Otherwise, who in their right minds would accept? I'm sure they assumed TVB will treat them well, or at least acceptable. ATV may pay more, but they really suck at marketing their stars. It was simply heartbreaking to see Gilbert demoted to such minor roles. A true waste of talent.
If ATV continues to make awesome kung fu series like in the 80s and even 90s, TVB would be in serious trouble. But with TVB series tanking in quality, so did ATV.