Yep, HIVE is a DPoS.

-> https://en.bitcoinwiki.org/wiki/DPoS

Whats unique for HIVE is on every transaction is not just about "Assets" or transfers.

-> check this https://hiveblocks.com/ - you might have an idea for these transactions, public chains can be used in any way for research, statistics, and the like.

Its possible in the near future, social apps will try to use these types of blockchains, its not just curation/upvote/comment and earn money though, however in order to maintain the future of this blockchain in terms of governance, majority of the stake holders must agree to benefit the chain.

Goodnight!