Are Pokémon Cards a Good Investment in 2023?

March 11, 2023 · Your Playmat
koraidon and miraidon pokemon cards

Buying collectibles has become an increasingly popular alternative investment strategy. Many collectors diversify their portfolios to include rare art, wine, and sports memorabilia.

One such item that has gained attention in recent years is pocket monsters. They have become a hot commodity among collectors and investors alike.

In our article, we’ll explore the risks and limitations associated with investing in Pokémon cards. And we will find out whether it is a good idea to buy them in 2023. Also, you’ll get a brief history of pocket monsters as collectible items. We’ll cover their origins and evolution into a global phenomenon.

With our article, you can find out the current state of the Pokémon card market and recent trends. This way, you can decide whether Pokémon cards are worth investing in.

Reasons To Invest In Pokémon Cards

Pocket monsters have been popular among collectors and fans since their start in 1996. In recent years, the value of rare pocket monsters has skyrocketed. It leads many to wonder if buying them is a wise choice. There are several reasons why Pokémon cards are worth buying.

Historical Significance

Pocket monsters have a rich history that spans over two decades. The game's popularity has only grown over the years. And the collectibles have become a symbol of nostalgia for many collectors. As such, they are a part of pop culture history and are highly sought after by collectors.

Rarity

Like any collector's item, the rarity of pocket monsters is critical in determining value. Certain are extremely rare, with only a limited number of copies. These ones can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.

Potential for Growth

Pocket monsters have consistently increased in value over the years. And there is no sign that this trend will slow down anytime soon. As such, investing in Pokémon cards is a way to grow one's wealth over time.

For example, the value of the Charizard card has increased by over 1000% since its release in 1999.

Cultural Relevance

Those creatures have continued to remain relevant even in today's society. The Pokémon Go game's recent release has renewed interest in the franchise. And the release of new card sets has only added to its popularity.

Reasons NOT To Invest In Pokémon Cards

Many have made a considerable profit from buying these collectibles. But it is vital to acknowledge that investing in Pokémon cards is not for everyone. We'll discuss why someone might choose not to get the collectibles.


High Market Volatility

One of the primary reasons is the high market volatility. The prices of collectibles are incredibly susceptible to fluctuations. It makes it difficult for collectors to predict the market.

For example, in 2021, the first-edition Charizard card sold for a record-breaking $311,800. But only a few months later, the same card sold for $150,000, a decrease of over 50%. Such volatility makes it challenging to determine the future cost.

Difficulty in Authenticating Cards

Another reason why Pokémon cards are not worth buying is the difficulty in authenticating. As the value of rare pocket monsters increases, so does the number of counterfeit cards on the market. It is challenging to determine whether a card is genuine. And buying a fake card can result in significant losses.

Limited Liquidity

The collectibles are less liquid than other options, such as stocks or real estate. The market for these items is relatively small. And finding a buyer for a high-value card can be difficult. The limited liquidity of pocket monsters can result in a longer wait time to sell them.

Lack of Diversification

Another reason why Pokémon cards are not worth buying is the lack of diversification. Buying solely Pokémon cards can result in a lack of portfolio diversification. It increases the risk of losses. Diversification is essential in any portfolio. It helps to spread risk and reduce the impact of losses.

High Entry Costs

Some of the most valuable collectibles can be prohibitively expensive. For example, the First Edition Charizard can cost thousands of dollars. As such, investing in pocket monsters may not be workable for those who do not have the financial means.

Risks And Limitations Of Investing In Pokémon Cards

Now, let's discuss:

  • The risks and limitations associated with buying cards;
  • Potential factors that could decrease the value of collectibles;
  • How to mitigate these risks and limitations if some Pokémon cards are not going up in value.

Let's start from the risks.


Limited market

One of the primary risks is the limited market. Pocket monsters have a limited number of buyers and sellers. The demand for them is mainly driven by nostalgia and popularity. It makes it challenging to predict market trends accurately.

Lack of regulation

Another risk is the lack of regulation. There are no regulatory bodies that oversee the trading of collectibles. This lack of regulation makes it easier for scammers to manipulate the market.

Rarity

Rarity is a significant factor in the value. But this can also be a limitation for collectors, as some rare cards are challenging to get. This limited supply can drive up the price of these cards. It makes them less accessible to the average collector.

Popularity

Popularity is another factor that can affect the value of pocket monsters. When a particular creature becomes popular, the demand for related cards can increase. But this popularity can also be short-lived, and the item’s value may decrease once the trend fades.


Potential factors that could decrease the cost of collectibles:

  1. Counterfeits. Counterfeit cards are copies that are made to look like the original. But they have lower-quality materials. These cards are often sold at a lower price, deceiving unsuspecting buyers. This can decrease the value of legitimate cards in the market. It's because collectors become wary of buying them.
  2. Damage. Cards that are bent, creased, or torn can decrease the value. And they are worth significantly less than their undamaged counterparts. Exposure to sunlight, humidity and other environmental factors also damage the card. This decreases its value.
  3. Market saturation. As more people enter the market, the supply of Pokémon cards may increase. It doesn’t lead to Pokémon cards going up in value. Also, if a particular card becomes too common, its value may decrease due to oversupply.

Mitigating Risks And Limitations

The most popular and working ways are:

  1. Research. Before buying the collectibles, research the market and the specific cards. This can help you identify trends, risks, and potential opportunities. It is also crucial to educate yourself on how to identify counterfeit cards;
  2. Diversify your portfolio. Buying different types of cards and sets can help you reduce the risk of losing money. And in case some of your Pokémon cards go up in value, you can compensate for potential losses.
  3. Buy from reputable sellers. Buying from reputable sellers can help reduce the risk of purchasing counterfeit cards. Research the seller and check their reputation and reviews before buying.
  4. Store your cards properly. Cards should be in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent damage from environmental factors. Also, cards should be in protective sleeves or holders.
  5. Set a budget. Setting a budget can help you manage your investment and prevent overspending. Determine the amount of money you will invest and stick to it.

Tips For Investing In Pokémon Cards

Thundurus, Zekrom and Raikou pokemon cards

As with any buying, there are risks involved. But with proper research and attention to detail, Pokémon card investing can give returns. This paragraph will discuss best practices for investing pocket monsters.

Before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider. They are to ensure that you are making a wise purchase:

  • Rarity is one of the most important factors when buying pocket monsters. The rarer the card, the more valuable it is likely to be. In general, items produced in smaller quantities are rarer and more valuable.
  • Condition is another important factor to consider. Those collectibles that are in mint condition are generally more valuable. It's vital to inspect the card thoroughly before buying it.
  • Demand is also an important factor to consider when you should do Pokémon card investing. The demand for a particular card can greatly affect its value. Some cards are more popular and in high demand among collectors. It's important to research current trends in the pocket monsters market. This way, you can determine which cards are currently in demand and likely to increase in value over time.

Different Investment Strategies

There are different Pokémon card investing strategies to consider:

  • One strategy is short-term flipping. It involves buying cards and then quickly reselling them for a profit. This strategy requires a good understanding of the market. You should also be able to spot undervalued cards that you can sell quickly for a profit.
  • Another strategy is long-term holding. It involves buying cards and holding onto them for an extended period. This strategy requires patience and a willingness to hold onto cards. It's important even if the cards' value fluctuates over time. Long-term holding can be especially effective with rarer cards. Pokémon cards are likely to go up in value over time.

It's vital to note that there are risks associated with both Pokémon card investing methods. The market can be volatile, and there is always a risk that a card's value will decrease over time.

Tracking Card Values

To effectively buy collectibles, it's important to stay up-to-date on the value of cards. There are several resources available for tracking card values. They include online marketplaces, price guides, and social media groups.

eBay and TCGplayer provide valuable information on the value of specific cards.

Guides like the Beckett Collector Price Guide provide info on cards' costs. These guides are typically updated periodically. And they provide information on the value of cards based on their:

  • Rarity;
  • Condition;
  • Other factors.

Social media is also a valuable resource for tracking values for Pokémon card investing. These groups are often made up of other collectors. They can provide valuable insights into the market and share information on current trends and upcoming releases.

Potential Indicators For Buying And Selling

There are several potential indicators when deciding whether to buy or sell cards. They are:

  1. The release of new sets. When a new set is released, it can often cause a shift in the market. Collectors scramble to get the new cards.
  2. The performance of the pocket monsters franchise as a whole. If a new game, movie, or TV show is released and is successful, it can create renewed interest in pocket monsters collectibles and potentially increase the value of certain cards.
  3. Trends in the market. If a particular card or set is experiencing a surge in popularity and demand, it could be a good time to sell. But if a card or set is experiencing a decline in popularity, hold onto the cards and wait for the market to recover.

Conclusion

As a result, Pokémon cards are worth investing in. But to make a profit, you must adhere to several principles. You definitely need to study the card market and study the specifics of cards in detail. You also need to cut risks while investing and learn strategies for selling and buying cards.

FAQ

What Is The Rarest Pokémon Card?

The rarest Pokémon card is the Pikachu Illustrator. It was awarded to winners of a Japanese illustration contest in 1998.

How Do You Determine The Value Of A Pokémon Card?

Several factors determine the value of a Pokémon card. They are the card's rarity, condition, age, popularity, and demand among collectors.

Are First-edition Pokémon Cards Worth More?

First-edition Pokémon cards are generally more valuable. They were the first cards produced and are often rare. But the value of a first edition card also depends on its condition and rarity.

Can I Make A Profit By Investing In Pokémon Cards?

Yes, but take into the account:

  • The current demand;
  • The rarity and condition;
  • Your ability to buy and sell at the right time.

What Is The Future Of The Pokémon Card Market?

The market will likely continue to fluctuate. But as long as there is a passionate collector base, there will likely be a market for Pokémon cards.

Should I Invest In Graded Or Ungraded Pokémon Cards?

It depends on your preferences and goals. Graded cards are generally more valuable. And they offer a higher level of assurance of authenticity and condition. But they can also be more expensive. Ungraded cards are more accessible and affordable. But their value can be more subjective and dependent on the condition.

What Are Some Other Factors To Consider Before Investing In Pokémon Cards?

They are the current market trends, the rarity and condition of the cards, and your budget and goals.

Are Pokémon Cards Worth Collecting?

Pokémon cards can be worth collecting for those who enjoy the hobby. And it's great for those who appreciate the artwork and history of the franchise. But the value of the cards can fluctuate over time. And it may not always provide a significant return on investment.

Will Pokémon Cards Go Up In Value In 2023?

The value of Pokémon cards can go up or down based on various factors. They include market demand, rarity, and condition. But it is difficult to predict future value fluctuations with certainty.

How Much Will Pokémon Cards Be Worth In The Future?

The future value of Pokémon cards is uncertain. And it can depend on a variety of factors. They are:

  • The supply and demand;
  • Changes in the franchise;
  • Condition and rarity of specific cards.