In the event of a global catastrophe that renders modern economies obsolete, Pokémon cards would likely become the de facto global currency, according to Pete Levin, founder of venture capital firm Griffin Gaming Partners. Levin, who reportedly manages over $1.6 billion in gaming assets and owns approximately 500,000 trading cards himself, shared this assertion with The Hollywood Reporter.
Levin highlighted Pokémon's status as a "global phenomenon" and suggested that its cards would retain significant value even after a catastrophic event. He noted that Pokémon cards have outperformed the S&P 500 by 3,000% and have experienced parabolic growth since the late 1990s and early 2000s, driving international market expansion for trading cards. "I'm absolutely convinced that if the world suffered an apocalypse tomorrow, the following day the global currency would be Pokémon cards," Levin stated.
Several factors contribute to this prediction. Standardized card grading by companies like PSA provides quantifiable value and proof of authenticity, simplifying their use as a standardized medium of exchange. Furthermore, the rise of the "kidult" market, where adults constitute around 30% of global toy sales, indicates a generation with nostalgic ties to these items and the disposable income to invest in them. This sustained interest and purchasing power are seen as significant drivers of the trading card market.
The increasing popularity and perceived value of rare Pokémon cards have also led to widespread scarcity, making them targets for scalpers and thieves. Retailers like Target have taken measures to deter scalping, such as opening sealed boxes, while some releases in Japan are limited to Japanese residents. The Pokémon Company has struggled to meet demand, despite printing 10 billion cards last year alone.