21 February 2026

Home Sales Down Again, EV Demand Slumps, Gold Rallies | Numbers Scream Ep. 10: A Summary

In the latest episode of Numbers Scream, Tom Ellsworth, also known as the Bisdoc, dives into five critical economic indicators that are shaping the landscape for businesses and individuals alike. If you’re short on time, we’ve summarized the key points from the video so you don’t have to watch the entire thing.

Key Highlights

1. Credit Card Debt Hits All-Time High
   The episode kicks off with alarming news: credit card debt in the United States has soared to $1.3 trillion, marking an all-time high. Tom discusses how this figure has climbed since the 2008 financial crisis, where debt levels were significantly lower. The pandemic saw a temporary drop in debt due to stimulus checks, but spending surged again in 2023, leading to this new peak. The implications are serious, as stagnant wage growth means many Americans may struggle to pay down this debt, which could have broader economic repercussions.

2. California Exodus to Las Vegas
   The video highlights a significant trend: many Californians are searching for homes in Las Vegas, with 23% of home searches in Vegas coming from California. The high cost of living in California, where the average home price exceeds $1 million, is driving this migration. Las Vegas offers a more affordable alternative, with home prices ranging from $435,000 to $465,000. This shift is not just about wealthy individuals; it reflects a broader desire for more affordable living conditions.

3. Inflation Cooling, Gold Prices Rising
   Tom explains that while inflation rates are cooling—currently at 2.4%—the price of gold is on the rise, reaching around $5,450. This paradox is attributed to the declining purchasing power of the dollar, which makes gold more expensive. Tom suggests that while gold can serve as a hedge against inflation, it’s wise to consider a balanced investment strategy rather than going all-in on gold.

4. Home Sales Decline
   The housing market is facing challenges, with home sales projected to drop to 3.9 million in 2026, down from over 4 million in 2023. Despite lower interest rates, rising property taxes and homeowners insurance are making homes less affordable. Tom emphasizes that until median household income rises, the affordability crisis will persist, impacting both buyers and sellers in the market.

5. EV Sales Plummet
   Finally, the episode addresses the significant decline in electric vehicle (EV) sales in the U.S., which have dropped to 85,000 units, a 32% decrease year-over-year. The removal of government incentives and rising costs are contributing factors. In contrast, EV sales in China continue to grow, although they too have seen a recent downturn. Tom predicts that hybrid car sales may rise as consumers seek more affordable options.

Key Takeaways

• Monitor Credit Card Debt: With credit card debt at an all-time high, individuals should prioritize paying down debt to avoid financial strain.
• Consider Relocation: If you’re in a high-cost area like California, exploring more affordable housing markets like Las Vegas could be beneficial.
• Invest Wisely: While gold can be a good hedge against inflation, consider diversifying your investments.
• Stay Informed on Housing Trends: The housing market is cooling; potential buyers should be aware of rising costs beyond just mortgage rates.
• Evaluate EV Options: With declining EV sales, consumers may want to consider hybrid vehicles or wait for market adjustments before purchasing.

For those interested in a deeper dive into these topics, you can check out the full video on Valuetainment's channel.