In a recent appearance on Fox Business’s “The Big Money Show,” influencer and WWE wrestler Logan Paul highlighted the potential of nontraditional assets for young investors, particularly as he prepares to auction a rare Pokémon card he purchased for nearly $5.3 million. Paul emphasized that young individuals may find more value in investing in unconventional items rather than the stock market, expressing a belief in the importance of taking risks in one’s financial journey, especially at a young age.
“I think if you have the money, don’t be afraid to take a risk, especially if you’re young,” Paul advised, suggesting that investments in areas like sports memorabilia, trading cards, fossils, and art could be more meaningful than traditional conservative investments. He made a notable appearance during the interview, showcasing his PSA Grade 10 Pikachu Illustrator card, which he referred to as the “rarest and most valuable card in the world.”
In an impressive feat, Paul broke the Guinness World Record for purchasing the most expensive Pokémon trading card sold in a private sale in April 2022, acquiring the card for approximately $5.28 million. He elaborated on his purchase, stating it followed a windfall of unexpected financial success. The Pokémon card is set to go to auction in early 2026.
When questioned about the possibility of collectibles being a fleeting trend, Paul acknowledged it could be “entirely possible,” urging potential buyers to approach such investments with caution. He admitted that he often tends to buy at the “top of the asset class,” a strategy that comes with its own set of risks.
Supporting Paul’s insights, an index by analytics firm Card Ladder reported that Pokémon cards have seen a remarkable 3,821% cumulative return between 2004 and August 2025. This surge in interest aligns with sentiments expressed by Business Insider contributor Santiago Barraza Lopez, who noted that advice from ChatGPT recommended investing in Pokémon cards due to their scarcity and nostalgia-driven demand, especially in the face of stock market volatility.
The range of alternative investments extends beyond trading cards to include cryptocurrencies, commodities like gold and natural gas, and collectibles such as vintage cars and art. However, investing in trading cards presents unique challenges, including risks of counterfeiting, a lack of income generation, and the historical volatility of collectibles that have failed to retain value, such as Beanie Babies and NFTs.
A recent report from Goldman Sachs Asset Management reflected generational differences in investment strategies, revealing that millennials are increasingly leaning toward alternative investments. Approximately 20% of their portfolios comprise these nontraditional assets, in contrast to just 6% for baby boomers and 11% for Gen X. This trend underscores a significant shift in how younger generations perceive and approach investments, potentially paving the way for a new era in asset allocation.
