"I feel that there are a lot of people who got in early enough to take a massive advantage, which is fine, but those same people are looking to close the door behind them, so few others can benefit."
I couldn't have said it better. With each major change in the game, early players have done their best to increase the gap and be on top. The SL team has also benefited them the most as a way to "protect loyalty." Depending on their SPS holdings, this change might affect them (if they are just farmers now), or they could actually have enough to support their account(s).
Meanwhile, it is becoming increasingly difficult to enter the game or stay in it. Progression has been slowed down tremendously by all measures trying to "avoid exploits." For example, I've been in the Gold league for years, and with each measure, I am even being pushed back to Silver a little more; just when I thought my CP was enough to be close to Diamond. Now, SPS could increase in value, but, would the players see it worth it? Could they feel encouraged to invest more now in another change in the game to keep playing while knowing the ROI of such action can take 2 years or more to happen? and that is if the next bull run favors the game again.
Thank you for your analysis, it made my thoughts regarding the game feel less lonely.