🚀August 2024: Performance Update

As we wrap up August 2024, it's time to look back at how Splint Invest's alternative assets performed over the past month. While some categories faced expected slowdowns due to seasonal trends, several key assets demonstrated resilience and even notable growth. In particular, Pokémon cards, sports memorabilia, and sneakers outshone many traditional asset classes. 

Although some sectors, like precious metals and diamonds, underperformed, they form only a small fraction of our overall portfolio. This opens up exciting investment opportunities for those looking to enter the market at competitive prices. Let’s dive into the highlights, starting with the top performers and ending on a high note. 

Pokémon, Sports Memorabilia, and Sneakers: Rising Stars 

Among the newer categories in our portfolio, Pokémon cards, sports memorabilia, and sneakers stood out with strong performance in August. The Pokémon Glurak card saw a 2.91% increase, while the Nike Air Jordan Kobe sneakers surged by 3.87%. A notable highlight in the sports memorabilia sector was the 1991 Game-Worn & Double Signed Air Jordan V Michael Jordan sneakers, which climbed by 1.83%. 

These categories have benefitted from competitive purchase prices and recent auction records, offering exciting potential for future growth. Collectors and enthusiasts have driven demand, and this momentum is expected to continue into the fall months, making now an ideal time to get in on these categories. 

Art: Emerging Markets Lead the Way 

While the art market typically slows down in the summer, Splint Invest's collection of emerging market artists remained strong. A standout piece was Choi Myoung Young's "Conditional Planes 22-602" (2022), which we released in June 2024 and surged by an impressive 9.54% in August. This growth was driven by increasing demand for works featured in renowned galleries like Almine Rech, where Choi’s future pricing looks highly promising. 

Investing in emerging market artists is not just a passion play; it's a calculated strategy that continues to deliver strong returns. With average auction results remaining stable across the board, this category remains one to watch. 

One of the standout performers in the art category is Raghav Babbar's South Beach, Miami (Self Portrait), 2024, which has delivered a strong 6.23% YTD return. Babbar, a rising star in contemporary art, is known for his vibrant, bold depictions of modern life, often exploring 

themes of identity and place. This particular piece captures the energy and color of Miami, combining expressive brushwork with a unique perspective on self-representation. What makes this artwork even more attractive is that it’s still available for investment on Splint Invest at just €50 per splint. 

Watches and Wine: Patience is Key 

The luxury watch market remains divided. While older, super-rare timepieces have maintained their value, more common models continue to experience a downward trend. For example, Rolex Daytona 6239 saw a modest increase of 0.63%, reflecting the stability of rare models. However, standard watches are still on a downward trajectory. 

In the wine sector, August has historically been a slow month as many buyers are on vacation. As a result, the market tends to cool off until autumn when activity typically picks up again. Domaine Armand Rousseau Chambertin 2020 bucked the trend with a 3.09% increase, showing that top-tier wines still hold their value even in a sluggish month. 

Whisky and Rum: A Quiet Month 

Like wine, whisky and rum markets tend to see less action during August, which is often the worst-performing month for these assets. With fewer auctions taking place and a smaller pool of bidders, the overall valuation of our portfolio took a slight hit. However, we expect a rebound in the months ahead as collectors and enthusiasts return to the market. 

That being said, some standout performers include the Macallan 18 YO Vertical and Bunnahabhain, which saw increases of 1.38% and 1.02%, respectively. Whisky investors should remain patient, as historical trends show stronger performance heading into the fall. 

Precious Metals and Diamonds: Facing Headwinds 

August 2024 saw a dip in both the precious metals and diamond markets, with precious metals dropping by 6.2% and diamonds by 1.4%. The global economic uncertainty has caused many investors to shy away from traditional "safe haven" assets like gold and silver. Meanwhile, diamonds have been impacted by a reduced demand for luxury jewelry, a trend also reflected in recent financial reports from major luxury brands. 

However, these declines are relatively minor when considering their small contribution to our total portfolio volume. While these markets may not have shone in August, they could offer entry points for those waiting for a rebound in a more favorable economic environment. 

Cars and LEGO: Low Volume, Low Movement 

August also proved to be a quiet month for our classic car and LEGO categories, both of which historically experience lower volume during this period. The Ferrari 308GTS still managed a modest increase of 1.63%, reflecting stability in the classic car market. 

While August 2024 presented some challenges for certain categories, it also highlighted the strength and potential of alternative assets, particularly in newer sectors like Pokémon cards, sports memorabilia, and sneakers. For those looking to capitalize on growth opportunities, now is an ideal time to invest in assets still available at their original prices. 

As always, the key to successful investing is diversification and timing. Splint Invest’s portfolio offers a wide range of asset classes, allowing you to tailor your investments to your risk appetite and long-term goals. Don’t miss the chance to add these high-performing assets to your portfolio while they’re still available at a competitive price. 

Ready to invest? Explore our platform and start building your alternative asset portfolio today!