🚀 March 2025: Performance Update
Despite ongoing macroeconomic risks and global trade tensions, several alternative asset categories showed resilience in March. Once again, standout gains were driven by niche collector segments and successful below-market acquisitions. This month reaffirmed that holding low-correlated assets to traditional markets enhances overall portfolio stability during periods of uncertainty.
📊 Stability Amid Market Headwinds
The average performance across all categories stood at +0.2% in March, marking steady—if modest—growth in alternative investments. While categories like Watches (-1.6%), LEGO (-1.4%), and Wine (-1.3%) saw declines—largely due to concerns over potential U.S. tariffs—many segments remained in solid positive territory.
Art (+1.6%) led performance, thanks to strategic sourcing and continued strength in Q1 auction results. Notably, Tom de Freston’s "Fold" (2021) surged by +21.6%, validating our strategy of acquiring contemporary works well below market value.
🏆 Top Performing Categories
🎨 Art (+1.6%)
Tom de Freston, Fold (2021) was acquired at a 49% discount. Its price was conservatively increased by +21.6% in March and is still available on Splint Invest. Additionally, Choi Myoung Young works appreciated by more than 10%, with demand supported by a recent top-tier gallery partnership that lifted primary market prices.
🏈 Sport Cards (+1.0%)
Momentum continued with record-breaking auction activity. Kobe Bryant’s Chronology Auto Patch (24/35) gained +4.6%, while the highlight of the month was the 2024 Topps Dynasty Black Shohei Ohtani 50/50 autographed relic card, which sold at Heritage Auctions for over $1.3 million—a new record.
🧳 Travel Luggage (+1.0%)
Still benefiting from seasonal demand and growing interest in collectible luxury luggage, led by the Supreme x Louis Vuitton x Rimowa Set, which appreciated by +2.0%.
✨ Precious Metals (+0.9%)
Continued to serve as a stable hedge in a volatile macro environment. Krugerrand and Maple Leaf coins performed especially well, driven by rising gold prices.
🍇 Wine (-1.3%)
The wine market declined again, impacted by renewed tariff fears. However, selective assets such as the Burgundy White & Red Wine Portfolio 2022 grew by +4.0%—still available for investment.
💼 Featured Assets Still Open for Investment
These standout performers remain available via Splints:
- 🎨 Tom de Freston, Fold (2021): +22% – Price increase reflects only a quarter of the 49% discount at acquisition.
- 👜 Hermès Kelly 25, Vert Comics: +3% – Color rarity and pristine condition driving premium valuations.
- 🥃 1978 Macallan Fine & Rare - 39YO: +2% – A benchmark bottle from one of the world’s most coveted distilleries.
- 🍷 Burgundy White & Red Wine Portfolio 2022: +4% – Robust demand and vintage scarcity support ongoing value growth.
- 🏎️ Ferrari 348 TS, 1991: +2% – Youngtimer classics continue to attract collectors seeking accessible entry points.
📊 Benchmarking: Splint vs. Traditional Markets
Uncertainty continued to weigh on traditional financial markets in March. Geopolitical tensions and renewed tariff threats led to mixed performance in equities. In contrast, Splint’s diversified alternative asset portfolio returned +0.2%, with top categories like Art, Sport Cards, and Travel Luggage showing strong relative performance.
This divergence highlights the value of alternative assets as a buffer in turbulent times. Tangible, passion-driven assets are not only decor or nostalgia—they’re proving to be strategic, yield-driven investments.
🔍 Key Takeaway: Diversification Is Paying Off
From rare whiskies to limited-edition sneakers and ultra-exclusive handbags, Splint's platform offers access to tangible assets that deliver both cultural significance and financial performance. With continued focus on strategic sourcing and under-the-radar deals, we aim to unlock above-average returns—even in sideways or declining categories.
💼 Looking Ahead
As macro dynamics evolve, we’re staying agile—sourcing undervalued opportunities while monitoring risk. Whether your goal is portfolio diversification, inflation protection, or passion-driven investing, Splint Invest remains your trusted partner in building a resilient, alternative portfolio.
👉 Explore the best-performing assets still available today.
Most alternative asset categories maintained positive momentum in February. The standout performers included newly added artworks like Ryo Kato’s Portfolio of 10 Paintings (2021–2024) with an impressive +13.6% growth and Zevs with +11.5%.
January marked a robust beginning for Splint Invest’s alternative assets, with most categories delivering positive returns. The standout performer was the newly added artwork from George Condo, Women are Beautiful, 2024, which surged by +9.42%. George Morton-Clark’s I Swear the Puppet Did It & Drunk Text, 2024 also delivered impressive growth of +8.1%. These strong performances highlight the potential of strategically selected contemporary artworks.