一张小卡片撑起的百亿生意

Core Insights - The article discusses the rapid growth and cultural significance of trading cards in China, highlighting their evolution from a children's hobby to a substantial business opportunity [3][10]. Market Growth - The market size for collectible trading cards in China grew from 700 million RMB in 2017 to 12.2 billion RMB in 2022, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 78.4%. It is projected to reach 31 billion RMB by 2023 [7]. - The trading card market is increasingly recognized as a potential investment sector, with notable companies like Whatnot valued at 26.5 billion RMB and the founders of "Kayu," a leading trading card company, appearing on the Hurun Rich List with a wealth of 60 billion RMB [9]. Cultural Impact - Trading cards have become a new social currency among children, with parents observing their prevalence in school environments. The cards are now integrated into various aspects of pop culture, responding quickly to trending IPs and stories [5][6]. - The community around trading cards is growing, with live-streaming platforms attracting large audiences and fostering a culture of sharing and trading among enthusiasts [32][33]. Investment Potential - Trading cards are increasingly viewed as alternative investment assets, with rare cards fetching high prices. For instance, the Alpha Black Lotus card sold for $300,000 in 2024, showcasing the potential for significant appreciation [18]. - The establishment of a standardized grading and certification system for trading cards is crucial for maintaining market integrity and value, with organizations like PSA and BGS leading the way [21]. Demographics and Spending - The majority of trading card consumers in China are aged 8-14, accounting for 70% of the market, while only 5% are over 25. This contrasts with more mature markets like Japan and the U.S., where older demographics are more engaged [27][28]. - In 2024, the average spending per consumer on trading cards in China was only 18.7 RMB, significantly lower than in Japan (119.3 RMB) and the U.S. (64 RMB), indicating substantial growth potential [28]. Industry Strategies - Companies are expanding their IP portfolios to attract diverse consumer interests, with "Kayu" increasing its IP count from 44 to over 100 in just one year [29]. - Building community culture around trading cards is essential, with live-streaming and social media playing a significant role in engaging consumers and enhancing the overall experience [31][32]. Future Outlook - The trading card market reflects broader trends in emotional spending, with consumers seeking ways to alleviate stress through collectibles. This emotional economy presents new business opportunities for companies [41].