Entrepreneurial prospects, how do I help?
Economics forum
Posted on May 31, 2015, 7:30 p.m. by InfiniteParadoX
So I know a kid in high school, who plays magic. He is transferring schools, and doesn't know if anyone there plays, but is hoping he can get some people to do so. He has had this big ol' idea of doing something entrepreneurial during high school. I told him he could try something magic related, but I'm not really sure what that entails, I don't want to make him have difficulty making friends because everything he does comes with a price, but could speculation or seriously thought-out and tested decks be a way? Perhaps testing and building, then selling for a profit modern, standard, or EDH decks to people? Any ideas? (sorry if this isn't the right place, seemed most appropriate)
InfiniteParadoX says... #3
He is looking to make pocket change, candy, packs, highschool stuff. His target audience is people willing to pay more for convenience, as they are just starting. people who will not really notice that it is above market value, only notice it has good cards in it, and they want it. Also, woah, a Mod's help, Sweet! Thanks Epoch!
May 31, 2015 7:57 p.m.
Epochalyptik says... #4
People who know good cards know enough to know MV as well. The subset of people who know good cards, don't know or care about MV, have tons of spare cash, and want to acquire entire decks fresh out of the box is extremely limited; you're looking at basically one of the most untappable niche markets in Magic. This isn't a game that people pick up and spend a ton of money on right out of the gate. Plus, it's very difficult to identify new blood unless you're constantly scouting forums and stores. And even then, your chances of finding someone who happens to be a part of your target market are fairly low.
Also, if you're giving them the decklist, what's stopping them from just buying it themselves from SCG for actual MV? Or buying it from TCG for even lower?
When I was in high school, I sold gum and candy at $0.25 per, and I made bank. Huge market, lots of repeat customers, low investment, reasonable profits per sale, no time spent educating consumers. It's basically the best thing you can do in high school apart from starting your own actual business venture within your school.
May 31, 2015 8:04 p.m.
InfiniteParadoX says... #5
Yeah, I wasn't sure it was the best idea, but I thought T/O would provide some insight either confirming my doubts or blowing my mind with stories of people doing just that and making tons of money. Thanks for the second opinion!
Epochalyptik says... #2
I don't really know what you're getting at here. Is he looking to make a profit from Magic?
Also, nobody is going to buy pre-built decks if you're selling them at or above market value. You'd need to sell below MV to engage your target market (which is the subset of people who are interested in the deck, have the extra cash to spend, and want to buy it in its entirety), which means you can't make a profit unless you're acquiring cards for well below MV.
May 31, 2015 7:44 p.m.