Holidays. The rumored price cut for GTX580 didn't specify the timeline though. I would imagine the most realistic outcome is right around HD7970 launch (so Q1 2012), possibly January. Looking at Newegg, almost half of the 580s are sold out. With such demand, NV or its partners would feel no pressure to cut prices just yet. That's not to say the inevitable price cut on the 580 isn't coming. There is just no way for the 580 to remain at $450-500 as soon as 7900 series launches. The 580 is at best 15-20% faster than the 6970, and lower at 2560x1600. It's pretty much a sure bet hat 7900 will smoke it (as it should). This is one of the worst times to buy a videocard. Having the 480 being available for $175-200 and 5970 for $300 on Newegg is likely a good indication the current price levels are not sustainable.