Cards as an inflation hedge ?

[Lorewalker]

Originally Posted by Tyruscobb

I see the opposite occurring - card values decreasing. The 2020 Covid lockdowns brought people into the hobby. The stimulus money then gave people extra money to purchase cards. The new collectors and “free” money increased the demand, which, in turn, drove prices up.

However, when the lockdowns ended in 2021, people had other entertainment options to spend their hard-earned money. Plus, there were no more stimulus rounds - “free money” - and this is why the demand and prices began falling in March 2021. I think this trend continues.

First, inflation will further deplete card budgets. People will have to make cuts. Cutting the card budget or not paying bills is an easy choice. Thus, I think the demand further falls. Second, all those cards stuck in third third-party grading backlogs will eventually come online and enter the market. This will further increase the supply.

Weakened demand and increased supply is not a combination to higher prices. Sure, rare items will fair well, but I think the overall market comes down further.

Some of your might be true for some buyers but those who are really responsible for prices being driven up do not have to pick between expenditures on entertainment, dining and traveling or buying cards.