I think EVE has a fairly simple problem that often gets treated as an economic one when it is really a gameplay problem.
Most established players are not short on ways to make ISK. What is harder to find is something new and interesting to do with that wealth once you already have ships, alts, structures, and a healthy wallet.
One direction I would like CCP to explore is player-run public infrastructure: assets that are owned and operated by players, but provide a service to everyone rather than only to the owner’s alliance or territory.
A public highsec transit network would be a good place to test the idea.
The basic concept would be simple:
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CCP defines a small number of fixed highsec transit corridors.
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Corporations bid for time-limited rights to operate them.
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The operator builds and maintains the infrastructure.
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Anyone can use it under publicly visible terms.
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The operator can earn toll revenue.
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Rivals can contest the business through PvP.
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Existing stargate routes remain unchanged.
The goal is not to replace the map, remove travel, or create another passive income structure.
The goal is to create something players actually value, then let other players build businesses, contracts, politics, and conflicts around it.