Probably the case yes, not only that but with the G.E everyone is far too lazy to free-trade or look for free-trades. Basically what I'm saying is before the G.E if a mask was selling you could sell it to someone pretty quickly now it's impossibe, of course the trade-cap doesnt help, but it's fairy common knowledge that it'll rise before that event. Put it in your shoes if there's a big sporting event you'll support a team maybe wear their colours, or an election wear a button that supports who you're voting for it's no different in RuneScape.