The entire crypto market takes its direction from BTC for better or for worse. Hivemind was just released by the Steem developers. SMTs are going to happen this year and it should spur a lot of growth. Believe me the bidbots are a bigger problem compared to the CJs. Bidbots have been devastating for the ecosystem as there is no focus on quality and if they turn a profit the spammers and scammers swarm them everytime. I've got faith Steem still has a bright future. Steemit will need some major improvements if it wants to stay at the head of the pack!