Great point out there. Active users of the platform benefit from liquid Steem held by traders and passive investors.
I always like to point out that Steem has an inflation rate of 10%. (actually less and falling, but it's good to illustrate the point.) If a minnow has 10 Steem and ends the year with 11 Steem, then they are right in line with expected earnings. Anything more than a 10% gain per year (in Steem, not USD valuation) is over performing the platform, and most active Steemians are absolutely crushing a 10% return on their SP.