Check authenticity and costs before buying art; keep allocation small

Last Update Date: 05-10-2026

Published by Business Standard

Abhishek Kumar's role: Quoted

Abhishek Kumar pointed out that art earns nothing while it is held and carries heavy transaction costs. He said a budget must cover fees, insurance and upkeep, and suggested keeping art to about 2 to 5 per cent of net worth.

The article looks at art as an alternative investment as India's secondary art market grows. It sets out why buyers are drawn to art and the main risks: market cycles, poor liquidity, high transaction costs, information gaps and fraud. It also covers checking provenance and title, setting a budget, long holding periods and costs such as auction premiums and insurance.

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Check authenticity and costs before buying art; keep allocation small

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