state of the card market? curious as to opinions

lseecon

What are views on the overall strength of the sports card market right now with the stock market at all time highs and the economy seemingly doing quite well (though some may disagree with the economy strength).

I see crazy prices for PSA 9 and PSA 10 of rookie cards, but am wondering if that is reflective of the rest of the card market? It seems like I can pick up pretty good deals on all types of graded cards from vintage tobacco cards to modern, even in higher grades.

For the dealers and sellers, is the market good? Any areas of particular strengths or weakness? Has unopened slowed down?

KendallCat

Right now it seems very strong which is a given based on the economy(see stock market) which is up over 15% this year and 30% last year. For anyone who is not seeking employment they have extra disposable income to spend on cards, boats, cars, vacation homes.... With that being said cards are seeing record prices for high end examples - 52 Mantle's, PSA 10 low pop cards, HOF rookies in high grades...

If you are a seller now is a great time since people are buying, and if you are a buyer prices are higher than previous years. Just like with buying stocks nobody knows when the prices will drop or when on a bottom when they will come up. I always like to remember Warren Buffet's wisdom when it comes to investing - " when others are fearful be greedy and when others are greedy be fearful."

The other side to it always holds true - collect what you enjoy in a condition that you like or appreciate. That way if things ever drop considerably you don't panic and still enjoy what you have. It is just like the art or antiquities market - buy the painting because you like it and not because others like it. It is never a bad time to pick up a good card at a good price