Thanks @exyle for the analysis and proposed solutions. I was not aware that Steemit Inc's cost were that high and continuing to grow.

I think the bear market could be a blessing in disguise as the problems you identified were going to come to surface eventually. The harsh bear market just brought this all forward. Therefore, it also brings a solution forward. Imagine if we were dealing with this problem 2 or 3 years from now because costs have completely blown out. 

I have mentioned the importance of advertising months ago. I cannot see a sustainable solution that does not incorporate advertising at some point. The ideal time to have started including advertising would have been in January when the platform was teeming with activity and there were more eyes on Steemit and Steem content. 

Obviously we cannot turn the clock back but we can promote Steem as much as possible as possible to get eyes back on the website. Promoting the platform can be done by everyone and anyone. Increased usage will bring in more advertising revenue.