Tariff, tariffs, & even more tariffs; when you turn on the news nowadays it seems like that is a word you cant escape. However it is not discussed & understandably so how it can impact this industry.

Tariff can have a noticeable and potentially damaging impact on this industry, which solely relies on consumers using disposable income. Collecting sports cards is a hobby based activity something people engage in with their extra income, not out of necessity. If a father is left with the decision to buy a case of Prizm or pay for schooling, hopefully little Timmy can adjust to public school...

We are seeing in real time tariffs being imposed on imported goods such as card supplies and other protective materials, causing a rise in prices

Cardboard gold has been the first to publicly announce this but all are likely affected. 158% Tariff has been placed on all their product produced in Asia, which has resulted in prices going up. Supplies such as top loaders, sleeves, etc are far from the only thing that will be impacted by this. Card stock, packaging materials, or even finished products manufactured overseas, the cost of producing or acquiring these cards rises. Panini has recently started to produce and manufacture cards in Mexico and those will cost more to get them over the border.

For businesses within the sports card space—like hobby shops, online retailers, and card grading services—tariffs could tighten margins and disrupt supply chains. Delays in product releases or inconsistent inventory can frustrate collectors and reduce excitement around new drops or seasonal releases. Additionally, as prices rise across the board due to broader inflation or supply chain challenges triggered by tariffs, consumers may begin reallocating their disposable income toward more essential goods and services, leaving less room in their budgets for hobby spending.