RawnuJust noticed that my FC carrier finances have now reached a point where this thing will run for over 5 years without me doing anything (and still have some billions left in the bank). Elite Dangerous is really simulating the post-scarcity economy. The only thing left is occupying yourself with worthwhile stuff to do (in my case currently: engineering every possible type of Mandalay).
Yup. You said it.
I'm someone who enjoys creativity, learning, and experience/exploration. Therefore, I already value the intangible rewards of an activity more than the tangible ones. It's nice, for me, to reach a point in the game where the gameplay aligns with that mindset.