The global economy is entering a phase where traditional investment tools — stocks, bonds, deposits — are losing their appeal. Inflation erodes returns, geopolitics adds uncertainty, and digitalization creates new models of capital allocation. Against this backdrop, interest in so-called “real assets” is rising: cars, shipping containers, strategic minerals, and luxury goods.
One company that unites all these areas into a single ecosystem is f1rst.auction. Its model demonstrates how to adapt to a changing world while meeting the demands of investors from different regions.
Global Background
According to McKinsey, in 2024–2025 the alternative investment market grew by 14% and continues to expand. Two segments drive this growth: raw materials and logistics. Lithium, palladium, and gold are becoming the foundation of the technological transition, while containers and transport represent the critical infrastructure of global trade.
The premium car market — especially in Europe and the Middle East — is also showing steady annual growth of around 8%. At the same time, the luxury segment is setting records: sales of watches and accessories increased by 11% in 2024, according to Bain & Company.
How the f1rst.auction Model Works
The company offers clients diversified access to four segments at once:
- Cars. Contracts are signed remotely, with delivery ranging from 14 days across Europe to up to 39 days to the Middle East. The formula is simple: 10% down payment, the rest after shipment confirmation. This approach reduces risk and makes deals accessible to clients worldwide.
- Containers. Investors purchase new or previously used containers, which are leased to transport companies. Returns reach 15–35% per month. This segment provides stability and resembles a “rental business,” only in logistics.
- Minerals. The core development direction. Gold, lithium, platinum, palladium, and rare stones are the main growth drivers. Returns reach up to 48% per month, while investors receive certificates of ownership in mining and processing projects.
- Luxury. Watches, designer clothing, and accessories are acquired through direct access to European auctions. This segment combines prestige with long-term value.
Comparison with Other Players
Unlike classic auction houses that specialize in a single segment (such as Sotheby’s in art or Copart in cars), f1rst.auction bets on multi-sector integration. This reduces dependency on cycles in individual markets.
- When the car market slows, container income compensates.
- When logistics is overloaded, metals and minerals step up.
- Luxury remains a “hedge segment” for those who value capital preservation.
Focus on Strategic Resources
Analysts pay particular attention to the minerals sector. Unlike stock market speculation, here returns come from real production.
- Gold — a traditional capital protection asset.
- Lithium — the key to the energy transition.
- Palladium and platinum — in demand across medicine, automotive, and electronics.
- Diamonds and rare stones — long-term storage assets.
According to commodities experts, the returns of up to 48% per month offered by f1rst.auction projects are explained not by “financial engineering tricks” but by direct contracts with exporters and processors.
“We see lithium demand rising steadily in the coming years. Those entering projects now gain a unique advantage. f1rst.auction offers access where previously only large funds could participate,” notes one analyst specializing in rare earth metals.
Financial Flexibility
A key distinction of the model is its flexible payment structure. Clients can pay either by bank transfer or USDT cryptocurrency.
- SWIFT is preferred for large deals in gold and diamonds.
- Cryptocurrency is commonly used for lithium, palladium, and containers.
According to the company, more than 40% of clients have already switched to crypto payments. This reflects the broader trend toward financial digitalization and the convenience of instant transfers.
Client Stories
Investors are eager to share their experiences:
- Client from Doha:
“I bought an SUV and received it in 37 days. That was my first experience with f1rst.auction. Now I’ve invested in containers — and the income comes every month.” - Investor from London:
“I bet on lithium. I receive reports and payouts directly to my crypto wallet. This isn’t just numbers — it’s part of the energy future.” - Entrepreneur from Riyadh:
“For me, gold is a symbol of stability. I use bank transfers and trust them more than any other instruments.”
Conclusion
f1rst.auction aligns perfectly with global trends as a universal platform for investors. Its multi-sector model reduces risks, while its focus on strategic resources makes returns attractive even to cautious players.
In a world where stock markets fluctuate and inflation erodes deposits, the future lies in real assets. Platforms like f1rst.auction are becoming the bridge between private investors and global strategic markets.
Cars deliver quick results. Containers provide stability. Luxury preserves prestige. But it is minerals that emerge as the true driver of the new economy.