Sports Market Insight GradenCards LLC Issue 5 1/10/25

Sports Market Insight – Edition 5Welcome back to Sports Market Insight! This week, we're diving into the latest trends in sports memorabilia, trading cards, and TCG collectibles, ensuring you're updated with everything you need to stay ahead in the market.

Main Market Trends in Sports Collectibles

1. Baseball Cards Surge in Preseason BuzzWith Spring Training around the corner, baseball cards are gaining attention. Collectors are eagerly chasing rookies and standout prospects from the 2024 season. Keep an eye on players like Jackson Holliday and Paul Skenes, whose autographed cards are already skyrocketing in value.

2. Football Cards Retain Postseason MomentumThe NFL playoffs always bring excitement, and this year is no different. Quarterbacks leading their teams deeper into the postseason—like Patrick Mahomes and Brock Purdy—have seen a spike in demand for their rookie cards.

3. Basketball Collectors Focus on Victor WembanyamaVictor Wembanyama's NBA debut has electrified the hobby. His cards, especially parallels and low-numbered inserts, are performing exceptionally well, cementing his status as one of the most sought-after young stars.

4. Hockey's International Appeal ExpandsConnor Bedard's breakout season has brought new energy to hockey cards, while international tournaments are broadening the sport’s collectible market.

5. Soccer Cards Continue Global GrowthWith the UEFA Champions League resuming and excitement building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, soccer cards are maintaining steady growth, particularly for legends like Lionel Messi and young stars like Jude Bellingham.

TCG Spotlight

Pokémon Cards: New Sets Dominate

The latest Pokémon expansion is a hit with collectors and players alike. Alternate-art cards remain the most desirable, with Pikachu and Charizard still leading the charge.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Vintage Cards on the Rise

Collectors are flocking to vintage first-edition sets, pushing prices higher. Key cards like the Blue-Eyes White Dragon and Dark Magician remain highly coveted.

Garbage Pail Kids: Nostalgia-Driven Growth

The enduring appeal of Garbage Pail Kids is drawing in both old and new collectors. Limited-edition runs and artist-signed cards are especially popular.

Key Takeaways for Investors

1. Diversify: With so much action across sports and TCG markets, consider spreading your investments.

2. Timing Matters: Look for opportunities during off-seasons to grab undervalued cards.

3. Grade Wisely: Grading adds value, so focus on submitting cards with high gem-mint potential.

We hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of Sports Market Insight! Stay tuned for the latest updates, tips, and trends to fuel your collection.