Invest in Trading Cards

More and more investors find investing in trading cards an exciting and nostalgic concept. Indeed, collectable cards have been a firm part of pop culture for decades and are highly popular among collectors and investors.  

If you’re thinking about investing in trading cards yourself, Splint Invest offers you a great opportunity to invest in a curated selection of both trading card games and sports trading cards. 

And if you first want to learn more about trading card investments (as any savvy investor should), you’ll find all the information you need to get started here. 

About Trading Card Investments

Trading cards can be divided into two primary categories - trading card games (TCG) and sports trading cards:

Trading Card Games 

The trading card game (TCG) market includes collectable cards used in strategic games, often based on fantasy worlds and popular franchises. Well-known examples include Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh!

Market Development and Growth Potential 

TCGs have experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by the increasing popularity of esports events and online gaming platforms. In 2024, the global market value was estimated at around $6.46 billion USD. With a projected annual growth rate of over 7.8%, it is expected to reach $11.78 billion USD by 2031 (verifiedmarketresearch.com).

The demand for rare and limited edition cards has led to impressive price increases. The introduction of new editions and limited print runs continuously drives the market and offers investors a wide range of opportunities.

“Charizard 1. Edition 1999 - Vertical Collection” released 03/09/2024 on the Splint Invest App 

Geographic Market Distribution 

North America and Asia dominate the TCG market, with Japan, home to many popular franchises, playing a central role. However, Europe is catching up and experiencing steady growth, driven by a growing community and increased event activities. 

Types of Trading Card Games to Invest In

The most popular types of trading card games you can invest in include:

Magic: The Gathering Cards. A pioneer of trading card games, Magic: The Gathering has captivated players since the 1990s. Early cards with limited print runs often appreciate, with value driven by collectibility or competitive gameplay relevance. Staying on top of trends is key to spotting sought-after cards.

Pokémon Cards. With a massive global fanbase, Pokémon cards are a top pick for collectors and investors. Demand surged during the pandemic, especially for first editions and high-rarity cards. Fan-favourite Pokémon and iconic characters also have strong potential to grow in value over time.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Cards. This fast-paced game has kept fans hooked since the late 1990s. Card value depends on rarity, condition, edition, and booster pack origin. Competitive cards can lose value due to reprints, but iconic debut-era cards consistently hold their worth.

Comic Book Trading Cards. Marvel and DC bring their legendary characters to the trading card world, creating exciting investment opportunities. Rare cards, limited editions, and those featuring iconic comic book moments offer strong potential for high returns.

Sports Trading Cards 

The second type of trading card available for investment is sports trading cards. These popular collectable cards feature athletes from various disciplines, such as football, basketball, baseball, and ice hockey. These cards have a long tradition and have been popular collectables and investment objects for decades. 

“Jordan/Pippen 2005 Exquisite Collection Dual Scripted Auto Patch” released 28.08.2024 on the Splint Invest App 

Market Development and Growth Potential 

The sports trading card market has experienced a renaissance in recent years, supported by increased interest in nostalgia and the digitalization of trade through online platforms. 

In 2024, the global market value was estimated at around $12.62 billion USD. With a projected annual growth rate of over 7.8%, this value is expected to reach $23.08 billion USD by 2031 (verifiedmarketresearch.com).  

Rare cards of legendary athletes regularly achieve record prices. A notable example is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card, which sold for an impressive $12.6 million USD in 2022, breaking the previous record for a sports trading card. 

Similar trends can be observed in football, where rookie cards of now-legendary players like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo fetch high sums.  

Geographic Market Distribution 

While North America is traditionally the strongest market for sports trading cards, interest in Europe and Asia is growing steadily. The football market in particular is booming in Asia, driven by the growing popularity of European leagues and tournaments in the region. 

Best Sports Trading Cards to Invest In

Rookie Sports Cards. Cards featuring athletes at the start of their careers are often a great low-cost entry point for collectors and investors. Examples include Evan Mobley’s 2021-22 Panini Prizm NBA Red Rookie Card and Wander Franco’s 2022 Topps Rookie Card. Naturally, the more successful a player becomes, the more valuable the card becomes. 

Vintage Sports Cards. Older cards featuring legendary athletes are incredibly popular and highly valued by investors due to their rarity and high value. Vintage cards, particularly from the 1950s to 1980s, are heavily sought after for their historical significance and potential for strong returns.

Graded Sports Cards. These are sports trading cards assessed by grading services, such as PSA or BVG, that confirm their authenticity. Graded cards are typically more valuable and less susceptible to market fluctuations compared to ungraded ones. Also, as you’d expect, they tend to be more expensive.

Milestone Sports Cards. These are cards that commemorate significant achievements or famous events in an athlete’s career. Examples include Ja Morant’s NBA rookie card, which surged in value after his record-breaking playoff performance. These cards often gain value after major sporting milestones.

Why Invest in Trading Cards? 

So, are trading cards a good investment? When you start looking at the potential advantages, the answer is yes. 

Investing in trading cards offers a unique combination of nostalgia, passion, and financial potential. What’s more, historical data shows that high-quality and rare cards have experienced significant appreciation over the years. 

Some of the  main reasons for investing in this market are: 

• High Return Potential. Rare and high-quality cards have shown significant appreciation over time, making them a potentially lucrative investment.

• Diversification of Investment Portfolio. Trading cards offer an alternative asset class, helping reduce risk by diversifying investments beyond traditional markets.

• Increasing Demand and Limited Supply. Growing interest among collectors and investors, combined with the finite availability of rare cards, drives up their value. 

• Emotional and Cultural Significance. Cards carry nostalgic value and cultural importance, appealing to enthusiasts while providing an investment opportunity. 

Are There Any Risks to Investing in Trading Cards?

Like any investment, investing in rare trading cards isn’t without its set of potential risks. Here are some of the key things to consider before you start investing in TCGs or sports trading cards:

• Market Speculation and Price Fluctuations. Trading card markets are speculative and can experience significant and unpredictable price swings.

• Importance of Condition and Authenticity. The value of cards heavily depends on their condition and authenticity, making trusted verification essential.

• Risk of Market Oversaturation. An influx of new cards can oversaturate the market, potentially devaluing existing collections.

Taking all these into account, it’s advisable to focus on cards that are likely to appreciate in value over the long term due to their rarity, historical value, or connection to iconic moments and personalities. 

How to Invest in Trading Cards

Investing in trading cards requires careful consideration of where to buy, sell, and manage your collection. Whether you're starting out or expanding your portfolio, understanding the best platforms and approaches is essential. Here’s an overview of popular options:

Online Marketplaces. Platforms like eBay and PWCC Marketplace are widely used for buying and selling trading cards. They provide access to a wide array of vintage and modern cards and allow users to connect with a global audience. Social platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can also be useful for finding bulk sellers, offering opportunities to uncover rare finds at competitive prices. The problem is the large number of scammers selling counterfeit cards. Be extra vigilant if you go that route. 

Card Shows and Conventions. Attending in-person events allows investors to inspect cards firsthand, negotiate directly with sellers, and build connections within the trading card community. These events are ideal for discovering unique cards and learning about the market. However, attending all those events yourself can be a chore. 

Local Card Shops. Physical card shops are excellent for both buying and selling. Knowledgeable staff can provide valuable insights into card values and current market trends. Selling to a shop offers convenience and immediacy, though it may result in slightly lower returns compared to direct sales.

Auction Houses. For rare or high-value cards, auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Goldin Auctions attract serious collectors willing to pay premium prices. However, those places charge significant commission fees, so be aware of that when selling through an auction house. 

Alternative Investment Platforms. If you’d like to spare yourself the hassle, platforms like Splint Invest provide a modern approach to trading card investments. We allow users to invest in trading cards as part of alternative investment funds, making it easier to diversify a portfolio without direct card ownership. You won’t need to do the research, buy the card, and worry about keeping it in mint condition. We’ll handle everything, from buying the card to selling it at the best time. 

Trends in Trading Card Investing to Keep an Eye On

If you’re serious about investing in trading cards, you need to stay up to date with the latest market trends. When it comes to those, there have been several shaping the trading cards landscape, including: 

Digital Collectibles (NFTs). The integration of blockchain technology has revolutionised the trading card market through non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Digital cards appeal to tech-savvy collectors by offering built-in authenticity verification and ensuring rarity.

Online Platforms. The rise of global online marketplaces has made trading cards more accessible than ever. Platforms like eBay and emerging specialised marketplaces enable collectors to seamlessly trade gaming cards and traditional sports cards. 

Emerging Markets. Trading card popularity is spreading to new regions, including Asia and South America, expanding the collector base. This growth introduces unique cards and fandoms, presenting exciting opportunities for investors to tap into fresh markets with high potential for appreciation.

Varying Consumer Preferences. Shifting trends in collector interests continuously shape the trading card market. Whether it’s Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, or limited-edition movie-themed cards, investors must adapt their strategies to align with current demands. Monitoring pop culture, sports, and entertainment trends is key to staying ahead in the market.

Invest in Trading Cards with Splint Invest

Investing in trading cards can be a lucrative and fulfilling addition to a diversified investment portfolio. They offer the opportunity to combine financial gains with personal passion. However, as with all investments, careful research and due diligence are essential to minimise risks and maximise potential. 

If you’re looking to tap into the exciting world of trading card investment without the extra hassle involved, Splint Invest has got you covered. 

As an alternative fund investment platform, we allow trading card investors to expand their portfolios and leverage multiple opportunities for a fraction of the cost and time you’d have to spend buying, storing, and selling your cards. All you need to do is set up your investor account and buy your share in your chosen fund. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is collecting trading cards so popular?

Collecting trading cards is a unique mix of nostalgia, passion, and investment. Representing beloved athletes, famous games, or pop culture icons, these cards are often packed with emotional significance for collectors. The thrill of finding rare or valuable cards and the growing market for trading card investments further enhance their appeal. It’s a dynamic, rewarding, and potentially lucrative hobby. 

Is card investing expensive?

Contrary to what many people think, card investing can suit various budgets. While rare and vintage cards can be costly, rookie or emerging market cards often provide affordable entry points. Buying a share in an investment fund can also lower your initial investment. With Splint Invest, for instance, you can start investing in trading cards for as little as 50 euros per share. 

How can I find the best cards to invest in?

Finding the best cards requires tons of research and staying informed about market trends. Use online marketplaces, card shows, and expert platforms to identify valuable cards. Focus on rarity, condition, and historical or cultural significance, and consider platforms like Splint Invest for alternative investment opportunities.