JSA buys equity stake in SGC

[sb1]

Originally Posted by oldjudge

I think losing Michael and Sean, if that is true, is a real loss. My personal view is that any combination with JSA dilutes SGC's credibility.

That may be somewhat true, as the autograph authentication world in general is fraught with problems. Not only can the collecting fraternity many times not tell a good autograph from a bad one, neither can the authenticators on many occasions. The autograph business in general has a much higher level of bad news than the card collectible area. SGC had clearly defined itself as THE grading company in the arena of graders, based on consistent grading, a quality holder, fewist mistakes and premier customer service.

On a final note, Derek Grady and Scott Hileman are still there(at least as far as I know) and will be the glue to hold together SGC as we knew it.

[Matt E.]

I may be a little behind here but doesn't JSA currently work with Beckett Grading Services also?

Will James Spence Authentication (JSA) will own the majority of the equity investment in SGC?

Just wondering.

I have 100% of my cards in SGC holders.

Matt

[joeadcock]

Interesting.

[clamendo]

What goes around comes around. I had these Admiral Rams cards graded and authenticated years ago. So Spence and SGC are no strange bed fellows - maybe they were a little ahead of their time, previously. SGC seems to respond to these rumors fairly quickly. Remember, if you have knowledge and a good reputation (if the rumors are true) guys like Sean and/or Mike, should have no issue re-surfacing (if they want to) at an auction company, grading company, card manufacturer, as a dealer, etc. Look at Derek he's on his second tour of duty at SGC. I am not concerned at all. us36441.jpg

[JamesGallo]

I assume this is where this information comes from.

http://www.sgccard.com/boards/ubbthr...page=1&fpart=1

I am not very happy about this, as I had very good relationships with all three men and to see them all go in such a short period of time doesn't sit well with me.

That being said as long as things stay as they are I don't see any reason I will change and I guess I will have to just develop new relationships....

James H

[Leon]

First of all, everyone that has left over at SGC I consider to be good hobby friends. I have taken a vow of confidentiality but my understanding is it is basically business as usual. The same graders are still in place and that is mostly (all) what you pay for when you get your cards graded. As many of us on this board have a lot of business experience it is not unknown to see things like this happen when a merger or acquisition takes place. Add in the dismal economy we are in and these changes aren't a surprise. I do hate to see my friends leave the company but hopefully they will resurface in the hobby, if they want to, and land on their feet. Good folks usually do, and all of the guys that have recently left are good folks. I think it will be business as usual over at SGC. No one likes change but it is inevitable in today's business climate. best regards

[Tim Kindler]

Earlier today, I called SGC to check on a submission that I recently sent in. (There was no problems from SGC, just a little confusion on the Postal Service's behalf and I was just making sure SGC got my E98s! ) I talked with Michael on the phone and during the discussion, I believe that he said today was his last day there. I've never met him personally, but he was courteous, professional and very helpful. Even on his last day, he was was a great asset to SGC. Whatever endevours he is pursuing, his future is bright because of his professional and customer frienldy service and I wish him the best. I hope whoever is new to SGC is as courteous and professional as those who are leaving. I will continue giving them my business as long as those there continue to follow Michael's and others like his lead.
Tim Kindler

[sb1]

I too sent a submission in, which they received today and fully expect everything to go off as normal. I talked at length to Michael yesterday and he was as upbeat as ever. He has a myriad of options in front of him.

Joe Delgrippo will be in the saddle Monday. I would not want everyone to overwhelm him on the first day, but I believe if you call and talk to him you will find him quite personable as well. Although he may not be of fully up to speed ala, Brian and Michael, I am sure you will find that your business and happiness is the #1 priority on his list.