I'm new to the game stumbled upon Discord Channel for Clans and cartels as well. The only benefit I can immediately see is that their it will be less people wanting to attack you due to possible retaliation from your cartel & by way of your cartel not attacking you. Otherwise everything benefits whoever started the cartel (referals links, donated steem, donated sp & etc).
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Thank you for your comment. I do think you're right. But indeed the cartel starter does a good job :)