@webbsensei The monetary system for steem is basically like any other currency. But of course steem got some technical features that should compete greatly against other currencies.

Why is a dollar worth something? Because people beleive in its value and invested in it. That's the same with steem. If enough recognize it's value and wants to buy/use it, it will sustain the price of steem. Also why SMT is gonna be huge for steem if it is done right. Since it could not only increase the value of steem but also sustain it.

That's how I see it at least:)