Billionaires Increasingly Invest in Sports Teams Over Traditional Assets

Billionaires are increasingly focusing their investments on sports teams, moving away from traditional assets like art and cars, according to a new report from JPMorgan. The 2025 Principal Discussions Report indicates that approximately 20% of 111 surveyed ultra-wealthy families now hold a controlling stake in a sports team. This is a substantial increase from about 6% of families in 2023. These families collectively possess over $500 billion in net worth, with about a third prioritizing sports investments over other categories. The growth in sports team ownership is attributed to the deepening involvement of asset management companies, supported by successful television ratings, and the growing accessibility of major leagues like the NBA and NFL to private equity firms, which has boosted team valuations. Prominent investors like Steve Cohen, Mark Walter, and the Koch family have recently acquired significant stakes in sports franchises. Experts advise potential owners to be prepared to cede authority and maintain financial dispassion. **Impact**: This trend signals sports franchises as a growing alternative asset class, potentially driving up valuations and attracting more institutional capital globally. For Indian investors, it offers insight into evolving investment strategies and the increasing financialization of sports, though direct participation opportunities might be limited. **Rating**: 5/10. **Definitions**: **Billionaires**: Individuals with a net worth of at least one billion dollars. **Controlling Stake**: Ownership of sufficient shares or voting rights to influence or dictate the decisions of a company or entity. **Asset Management Companies**: Firms that manage investment portfolios for clients, aiming to grow their assets. **Private Equity Firms**: Investment firms that raise capital from institutional investors or accredited individuals to acquire private companies or invest in public companies for delisting. **Valuation**: The process of determining the economic worth of an asset or company.