I haven't heard any rumors re the Bass bros yet. I am still searching for more information on their intentions. I stopped by a Sotheby's International realtor out in the Hamptons a few days ago, to look for summer houses out there. I told them I owned BID and they seemed surprised, "not many people own our stock." I had to ask how business was going, and they -- I mean everyone in the office -- responded very positively, claiming they were having a great year. Made me happy on the inside.
Anyway... I figure that a lot of the positive movement must be from the recent high profile auctions, the Van Gogh, Lloyd Weber wines, Di's dresses (over at Chritie's), etc. Plus some interesting articles regarding collectibles have been printed lately, all mention that the auction houses are beginning to get in on the action. The tobacco paraphenalia is rumored to be among the hottest collectibles. A toy robot, yes toy tin robots from the 50s, auction at Sotheby's last year pulled in some decent cash too, I beleive I read that one went for $55,000 (I forget where I saw the article). It seems that this could be attracting some new investors -- and maybe some Small or Mid Cap funds like you suggested.
Who really knows?
geoff |
