Does Madonna-Centered Investment Strategy Have A Prayer?

You've gotta be kidding; one U.K.-based firm hopes to turn a hobby into a viable trading strategy, giving investors a real alternative for their alternatives portfolio. Marquee Capital is banking on investing in celebrity memorabilia, specifically that related to the singer Madonna, to drive performance for its one-year-old operation.

The firm, formed by four entrepreneurs, boasts what it calls “the world’s largest collection” of Madonna memorabilia, ranging from outfits she’s worn to a signed American Express card. It also has a collection of items from other celebrities, including Michael Jackson and Elton John.

“As far as we know we’re the world’s first investment vehicle specializing in celebrity memorabilia,” said CEO Chetan Trivedi. “Madonna turns 50 this year and, fan or not, she does represent an opportunity to invest in and we’re going to be holding exhibitions this year globally.”

The firm follows a two-prong strategy: long-term investments spanning at least a decade alongside tactical, event-driven acquisitions. Items once belonging to the likes of Madonna and Marilyn Monroe are held for the long-term, while other memorabilia, such as that of the Jackson 5, are flipped within the six to nine months in connection with events like the group’s proposed reunion tour this year.

http://www.finalternatives.com/node/3263