I don't see number 2 going well. Why would anyone come to the STEEM blockchain for there social needs if number 2 was taken away?? Answer: They likely wouldn't because as you said this is a niche site and I believe that niche hinges on number 2. Sure you would still have the die hards here but if a someone new was searching social media sites to post their content on what would make STEEM stand out among the masses???