Core Insights - The article discusses the trend of "financialization" in consumer behavior, highlighting how consumers are increasingly viewing purchases as investment opportunities rather than mere consumption [2][11]. Group 1: Case Studies of Financialization - Laopu Gold has seen a 42% premium in the second-hand market, driven by a 18% increase in gold prices and the appeal of its cultural heritage craftsmanship, resulting in a gross margin of 41.2% [3][4]. - Pop Mart's blind box collectibles have generated significant interest, with a hidden item selling for 1.08 million yuan, contributing to a 475% increase in overseas revenue and a 165% rise in Q1 2025 earnings [5][7]. - Xiaomi's Yu7 model achieved a lock-in rate of over 90% for pre-orders, with 200,000 orders placed in just 3 minutes, indicating strong consumer trust and a high resale value of 88.7% for its previous model [8][10]. Group 2: Underlying Motivations - The rise in consumer financialization is linked to a historical context where consumer loans surged, indicating a long-standing inclination towards arbitrage opportunities [12]. - The Z generation is particularly inclined towards financialized consumption, with 31% incorporating it into their financial planning, reflecting a shift in capital towards tangible consumer goods [13]. - High savings rates are driven by uncertainty about the future and inadequate social security, prompting consumers to seek ways to convert spending into micro-asset allocation [14]. Group 3: Insights and Implications for Businesses - Successful financialized consumer products must offer both emotional and asset value, as seen in Laopu Gold, Pop Mart, and Xiaomi [16]. - Creating a vibrant secondary market is crucial for financialized products, as demonstrated by Pop Mart's trading platforms and the liquidity mechanisms surrounding gold and Xiaomi orders [17]. - Building trust and a shared value perception among consumers is essential for establishing the financial attributes of products, as evidenced by the cultural significance of the Palace Museum's IP and Xiaomi's brand reputation [18].