Why are people paying these stupid tube prices?

Most of  China is shut down again due to the COVID 19. Another spike in the bug over there.

It could be worse if you had a Jadis JA200MKII.

'Why are people paying these stupid tube prices?'

1.   Panic buying.

2.   Speculation.

3.   Certainly a big part of the increase is caused by 1. and 2.

4.   Therefore greed.

5.   And selfishness.

Aren't we a horrible lot!

I was told  by a reputable source that WE will be producing small signal tubes and power tubes .....not might, will be

Only common,  and desirable tubes are being gouged..   My forthcoming amp uses e180f for the driver / input position,  I just picked up a pair of NOS Telefunken for $150.   A lot , sure , but imagine if they were CCA or 12ax7?    I bought Mullard and Amperex e180f and they were between $6 and $20 each for true nos.   First time in 20 years getting a break on the price of tubes.