BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – People pay thousands for antiques and sports and entertainment memorabilia at flea markets and online auctions.
But will these investments hold their value and are they a wise part of college or even retirement investment plan?
“It is unwise only if the return on the items in question are quite uncertain,” said University of Alabama-Birmingham economics professor Bradley Wilson.
“However, the decision to use these items for investments definitely depends on the individual’s preference for risk. Usually experienced collectors are savvy when it comes to assessing these items.
“But remember, only a small category of goods, for example art work, dictates high returns. Garden variety antique furniture, baseball cards and Beanie Babies combined will not cover retirement or college.”
