The Journal. Is the Hottest Investment Pokémon Cards?
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Nov 24, 2025 
Crystal Hur, a markets reporter focusing on financial markets and collectibles, discusses the surprising investment potential of Pokémon cards. She shares stories of collectors profiting from their childhood finds and reveals high-profile card auctions, like a Pikachu that fetched $500,000. The podcast explores the pandemic-driven surge in card interest and the influence of social media on prices. However, Hur also warns of market risks, including fraud and overproduction, highlighting the delicate balance between nostalgia and speculative investment.
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Basement Treasure Turned Real Wealth
- Lucas Shaw found forgotten Pokémon cards in his parents' basement that turned into a small fortune.
- He used proceeds to buy a $7,000, 3.5-carat engagement ring, showing childhood collectibles can become real windfalls.
Hobby Shop Closet Became Profit Engine
- Matthew Griffin, a former hobby-shop owner, discovered old stock in a closet and saw values spike during the pandemic.
- He turned some inventory into large gains and now stores cards in a climate-controlled room.
Celebrity Spotlight Fuels Hype
- Logan Paul's high-profile display of a near-perfect Pikachu Illustrator card helped legitimize cards as investments.
- He showcased the card publicly, boosting mainstream interest and prices.