"...we need more users, not fewer if Steem is going to grow..."
When exercising due diligence it is important to compare rhetoric to action. When the two diverge, action tells the truth. Speculation as to why they diverge is necessary to investors, but it is only useful when conducted objectively. There are specific metrics that drive adoption and retention. All aspects of HF21 diametrically oppose both.
Plan accordingly.
I agree. The problem arises when staking actions are the overt best course, and one goes from trusting the designers to not trusting them over a relatively short period. My due diligence happened over the course of a year before I decided to invest heavily. The about-course from the leadership was relatively abrupt. All we have left are our hopes and dreams, and the friendships we form in times of crisis.