Core Insights - The focus of the "Double 11" shopping festival has unexpectedly shifted to collectible cards, particularly the TOPPS X THE MONSTERS/LABUBU series, which sold out quickly despite a high price point and purchase limits [1][5] - The collectible card market in China is experiencing significant growth, with major players like Pokémon and various entertainment giants entering the space, leading to increased competition and market dynamics [4][8] Market Dynamics - The LABUBU card's popularity reflects a broader trend in the collectible card market, with a notable increase in sales and interest from consumers [4][5] - The collectible card market is projected to reach $7.267 billion by 2025 and $15.433 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.36% [6] - China is becoming a major player in the global card market, with projected market sizes of 26.3 billion yuan in 2024, indicating substantial growth potential [6] Consumer Behavior - There is a significant overlap between the user bases of collectible cards and other products like those from Pop Mart, challenging the perception that card users are primarily students [4][7] - The current demographic of card consumers is shifting, with a growing number of adult collectors, although the market still primarily caters to younger audiences [11] Competitive Landscape - The competitive landscape is intensifying, with over 2,000 card-related companies in China, and major brands like Pokémon actively expanding their presence [7][8] - The market is characterized by a mix of traditional IP-based cards and newer, more dynamic offerings that include gameplay elements, which are essential for long-term engagement [7][11] Future Trends - Analysts suggest that the future of the card market in China may lean towards trading card games (TCG) that incorporate gameplay and competitive elements, as opposed to purely collectible cards [11] - The transition from a hobbyist market to one with investment potential will require improved infrastructure, including credible grading systems and secondary market platforms [11]