Trading cards are a growing asset class and high six figure sales are becoming more common. In February 2026, Logan Paul sold his 1999 Charizard for $16.5 million, the most expensive trading card ever sold. Serious collectors and investors are join the game and total spend for trading cards, excluding sports cards, increased 350% between 2020 and 2025. Could this market crash? CNBC Reporter Brandon Gomez investigates.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:25 Chapter 1. From dusty binders to big bucks
4:39 Chapter 2. Why cards are outpacing Wall Street
7:29 Chapter 3. Risks, speculation and the road ahead
Produced, Shot and Edited by: Natalie Rice
Reporting by: Brandon Gomez
Additional Camera: Tasia Jensen
Animation: Jason Reginato, Emily Park
Senior Managing Producer: Tala Hadavi
Additional Footage: AP Photos, Getty Images
Additional Sources: GemRate
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Why Investors Are Getting Into Pokémon Trading Cards
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