How are rising living costs in Singapore changing collectors’ cash-out behaviour?

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Rising living costs in Singapore are pushing more collectors to sell prized collectibles for cash
Rising living costs in Singapore are leading more collectors to cash out of toys, trading cards and comic books, including Pokemon cards, Bearbrick figures and comic books. Some of the proceeds are being used to pay for housing, family and daily expenses, with the sell-off trend accelerating in recent years. Industry figures cited include a roughly 50% increase in sellers at Sugoi Collection compared with four years ago, and about a 30% rise in seller numbers at trading card stores.
Seller numbers are climbing, especially over the past four years
Retailers and industry players say the number of collectors offloading items has risen noticeably. Sugoi Collection reported about a 50% increase in sellers compared with four years ago, while trading card stores saw seller numbers rise by around 30%. The trend is described as having accelerated in recent years rather than remaining stable.
Cashing out is being driven by household financial pressures
Many sellers are reported to be in their 20s to 40s, and the reasons for selling include housing down payments and renovation costs. Job loss and broader household financial pressures are also cited as triggers for converting collectibles into cash. In practice, some collectors use the money to cover housing, family and daily expenses.
Selling is not always the end of collecting
Industry players say selling off does not always mean collectors are quitting the hobby. Some collectors treat their collections like assets and later buy back items when finances improve. This suggests the behaviour is often a temporary cash-out rather than a permanent exit from collecting.
Demand remains strong even as the market is described as volatile
Demand for collectibles is described as remaining strong, driven by nostalgia for franchises such as Pokemon and One Piece. Overseas buyers are also noted as an additional source of interest. At the same time, retailers caution that while collectibles can fetch high prices, the market remains volatile and should not be viewed purely as an investment vehicle.

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How are rising living costs in Singapore changing collectors’ cash-out behaviour?

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