Fees Up / Price Down 
so only "the rich" can cash-out if they want?

If you listen to this debate posted yesterday. You will hear a Core member telling you Bitcoin is working well for institutions and large investors. This is not FUD it is a fact in the interview.
The Debate Within Bitcoin: Jameson Lopp vs. Roger Ver on Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEBkdCdj4FQ