
Core Viewpoint - The rise of "golden millet" products, which are gold jewelry linked to popular anime and cultural IPs, is attracting young consumers, but their investment value is questionable due to high premiums and reliance on their "millet" attributes rather than the gold itself [1][7]. Group 1: Market Trends - Multiple collaborations between gold brands and popular IPs have emerged, such as Lao Miao with "Tian Guan Ci Fu" and Chow Tai Fook with Chiikawa, indicating a trend towards targeting the younger, anime-loving demographic [2][4]. - The pre-sale period for these popular collaborative products can extend up to 45 days, reflecting strong consumer interest [2]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Young consumers are showing a willingness to pay high premiums for these collaborative products, viewing them as both collectibles and investments, despite concerns about the actual value retention [6][7]. - The perception of these "golden millet" products as investment items is prevalent, but only those with strong fan loyalty, limited availability, and official authorization have potential for appreciation [7]. Group 3: Pricing and Value - Collaborative products are significantly more expensive than regular items, leading to discussions among consumers about the value proposition and the business strategies behind these price increases [6][7]. - The resale value of non-officially authorized "golden millet" products is primarily based on the weight of the gold, with recovery prices around 770 RMB per gram, excluding any premium for the collaboration [7]. Group 4: Industry Insights - The Z generation is becoming the main force in gold consumption, valuing emotional connections and cultural recognition, which these IP collaborations fulfill [7]. - Traditional gold brands are leveraging popular IPs to rejuvenate their image and appeal to younger consumers, but they must carefully assess the value and premium of these collaborations to ensure sustainable growth [7].