The gift of investment: Why the rise of luxury gifts delivers lasting value

Luxury gifting is more than just a beautiful piece of jewellery, a stunning designer handbag or a rare and sought after vintage wine. Yet now a luxury gift can mean a unique investment, and one that can deliver huge value over time.

The personal luxury market is now worth a huge $387 billion, and in the UK the total revenue from British luxury stands at £81 billion. Now a luxury gift can offer a significant investment, and even deliver a strong ROI when sold later down the line.

The new gifting philosophy

Traditionally, luxury gifts were expressions of love, celebration or appreciation. Yet now they are more than that, and actually they can be a savvy investment. Ranging from rare collectibles to investment grade treasures, the art of gifting has moved from the simple act of gifting into a statement of both meaning and financial foresight.

Katrina Aleksa, founder of gifting specialist and wrapping service Roxy Wraps, explains: “There’s a growing consciousness among our clients within their choices for gifts. They want to give something meaningful, but also something with longevity that will deliver value over time for a loved one. They’re looking for a piece that tells a story today yet holds value tomorrow and that’s not always financial. “

From limited edition Hermès Birkin bags and rare single malt whiskies to original artworks from bright and emerging artists, luxury gifts are increasingly chosen for their potential to appreciate in value. Collectors and investors alike are now curating gifts that align with their long term financial and aesthetic aspirations.

Birkin bags in particular are a well documented investment, and their value is much higher than its sticker price of around $12,000. The value of an Hermès bag can increase dramatically over time, with the second-hand market driving this as  the resale market offers shoppers more options than the Hermès store, where customers are allowed one quota bag per year, and rarely get to choose the exact model they want.

Katrina adds: “Items like vintage Louis Vuitton trunks, first edition artist prints, and bespoke jewelry with investment worthy stones aren’t just luxury—they’re a legacy giftwrapped. We’ve sourced pink Argyle diamonds, original drawings by Picasso, and discontinued Goyard styles for clients who were gifting but also quietly collecting.”

Auction houses and platforms such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s have amplified this trend as well as showcasing ‘giftable’ objects that double up as sound investments. Auctions have included fine watches to mid century furniture, with these pieces reflecting a broader movement toward mindful wealth building through luxury.

Building assets in art

One of the biggest shifts in luxury gifting is the growing appreciation for art as both a sentimental gesture and an investment.

Aleksa, who’s background began and she continues to be a respected art advisor and collector, shared: “The beauty of gifting art is that it lives on. It becomes part of someone’s home, their story as well as being their estate and something they can pass on.”

As art increasingly speaks to identity, taste, and time, it stands out as a deeply personal yet intelligent gifting choice. Art continues to be one of the main paths for collectors and investors, and now gifting pieces comes with a touch of personal thought as well as building wealth through a portfolio of assets.

Heirlooms of the future

In a culture driven by instant gratification, the shift toward timeless, high-value gifting is a luxury. Today’s most treasured gifts are defined not by price tags, but by permanence, rarity and resonance.

Aleksa surmised: “Today’s thoughtful gift can become tomorrow’s heirloom, and that’s where the magic lies in how a gift doesn’t just delight in the moment, but continues to grow in significance for years to come.”

As luxury gifting continues to evolve in 2025, the most meaningful presents will not only stand the test of time, but may also prove to be some of the smartest investments of all.