Like several other platforms, Republic has entered the art or collectibles sector of online investing.
Republic, which just closed on its acquisition of Seedrs, has grown to offer multiple investment verticals including, early stage ventures, real estate, crypto, gaming, litigation financing, and now art and cultural assets.
In a blog post from several days ago, Republic stated:
“The global art market was worth more than $65 billion in 2021, with over 36 million transactions completed worldwide. Last year’s highest-priced sales spanned a range of styles and origins; the most expensive piece sold was a Picasso painting, Femme assise près d’une fenêtre (Marie-Thérèse), that went for $103.4 million. The 10 most expensive sales alone accounted for a whopping $786.9 million in proceeds, signaling a healthy consumer appetite for fine art.”
Republic pointed to a study by Citi that indicates that between 1985 and 2018 the art market generated an average return of 5.3%. In the past, it has even topped the S&P 500.
In a challenging market, perhaps like today, art may be a safe harbor for returns. It certainly can increase portfolio diversification.
Republic is not alone in the world of online art investing, other platforms like StartEngine, Yieldstreet, pure-play Masterworks, not to mention NFT platforms, are all in the game.
Republic is also pushing into other “cultural assets” like wine and film. You name it.
It is inevitable that all types of investing will migrate to online investment platforms.