RE:RE:Dear BearDerthebear,
The following is my feeble attempt to argue with your unassailable facts/wisdom:
Proof of Stake begins on Ethereum this year (June), until then, mining will continue under the POW algorithm.
True, to be a NODE Validator you will need to stake 32 ETH (ie down payment) and have the required computation. HIVE has the resources in terms of coins and hardware.
Node operators will earn 4-10% return on ETH staked. Institutions / Individuals that have the financial backing but no knowledge or computation that want the return on ETH staking, will contract their ETH to someone who does, (HIVE anyone? lol) HIVE has a solid infrastructure, PLENTY of ETH to stake and is ready for the future of the Ethereum ecosystem, not to mention all the contacts in the "crypto community".
One unknown is the validation rate (ie how long it takes to validate a stake) but if this is is less than favourable the 40% reduction of operating costs referenced in most recent news may be more than adequate to offset.