I’d say that this is a big deal for anyone that strives for good SEO techniques when building websites.
It looks like Google has changed their minds on the relevancy of Yahoo and DMOZ links.
There used to be a point on Google’s Webmaster Guidlines page that said something like:
“Submit your site to relevant directories such as the Open Directory Project and Yahoo!, as well as to other industry-specific expert sites.”

Google’s John Mueller has commented:”I wouldn’t necessarily assume that we’re devaluing Yahoo’s links, I just think it’s not one of the things we really need to recommend.”
Another new step in the ever changing world of Google SEOing.