Refinitiv Unveils Collector's Plate Block Sets – A Unique Blend of Philately & Investment Insights

NEW YORK, NY – October 26, 2023 – Refinitiv US LLC, a leading provider of financial markets data and infrastructure, today announced a surprising – yet thoughtfully aligned – new offering: limited-edition plate block sets for stamp collectors. While known for powering the world’s financial institutions with real-time information, Refinitiv is dipping its toes into the world of philately, appealing to a passionate and growing collector base. You might be wondering, "What’s a financial data company doing selling stamps?" Well, it’s more connected than you think. Refinitiv, at its core, is about understanding trends, analyzing data, and seeing value where others don't. These plate blocks aren't just pretty pictures on paper; they represent a tangible asset class with a history of appreciating in value. Just like a well-researched stock, a rare stamp can be a smart, long-term investment. What are Plate Blocks? For the uninitiated, plate blocks are unsevered blocks of stamps printed from the same printing plate. Think of it like the original sheet before the stamps were individually cut. They offer a glimpse into the printing process and are highly sought after by serious collectors. Instead of a single stamp, you get a whole chunk of history. "We've been digging into alternative asset classes, and philately kept popping up," explains Sarah Chen, Head of Strategic Initiatives at Refinitiv. "The potential for growth, the historical significance, and the passionate community around stamp collecting – it’s surprisingly similar to the world of finance. We realized we could leverage our analytical skills to curate and offer exceptional plate blocks to collectors." Refinitiv’s Approach: Data-Driven Philately This isn’t just a random grab bag of stamps. Refinitiv is applying its data analysis expertise to the world of philately. The company’s analysts have been scouring auction records, historical printing data, and market trends to identify plate blocks with the highest potential for appreciation. "We're not just selling stamps, we're offering curated collectibles backed by data," says David Lee, a Senior Analyst at Refinitiv. "We've built algorithms to assess rarity, condition, and historical significance. We're essentially providing collectors with a 'financial report' for each plate block set." The Initial Collection: Focusing on American Classics The first release focuses on iconic American stamps, including: The 1938 Presidential Series: Featuring Franklin D. Roosevelt, these stamps represent a pivotal era in American history. Refinitiv is offering complete plates showcasing all denominations, providing a comprehensive look at this popular series. The 1960s Flag Stamps: These stamps are instantly recognizable and capture the spirit of a nation on the move. Plates show the full range of designs and denominations. The 1990s Wildlife Series: Featuring beautiful depictions of American wildlife, these stamps are both visually appealing and collectible. The plates offered showcase the vibrant colors and intricate details of the original printing process. The 1890 Series US Postage Stamps: An early series with a historical importance. Plates showcase the vibrant colors and intricate details of the original printing process. Each plate block set comes with: Certificate of Authenticity: Verified by a leading philatelic expert. Detailed History: A comprehensive overview of the stamp's design, printing process, and historical significance, compiled by Refinitiv's research team. Investment Analysis: A report outlining the plate block's potential for appreciation based on historical data and market trends. Protective Storage: High-quality archival sleeves and holders to preserve the condition of the plate blocks. Why Plate Blocks? A Collector’s Perspective "Plate blocks are the holy grail for many collectors," says Mark Thompson, a veteran stamp collector and advisor to Refinitiv. "They offer a unique insight into the printing process and are much rarer than individual stamps. The fact that Refinitiv is applying a data-driven approach to selecting these sets is a game-changer. It adds a layer of credibility and potential value that collectors will appreciate." Beyond Collecting: A Tangible Connection to History Refinitiv sees this venture as more than just a business opportunity. "We want to connect people with history in a tangible way," says Chen. “These plate blocks aren’t just pieces of paper; they’re windows into the past. They tell stories about the people, events, and ideas that have shaped our world." Availability and Pricing Refinitiv's plate block sets are available for purchase online at [hypothetical website address - www.refinitivcollectables.com]. Pricing varies depending on the rarity and condition of the plate blocks, ranging from $500 to $5,000 per set. Limited quantities are available. About Refinitiv Refinitiv US LLC is a leading provider of financial markets data and infrastructure. The company empowers financial institutions, corporations, and governments around the world with actionable intelligence to make informed decisions. With a commitment to innovation and accuracy, Refinitiv provides a comprehensive suite of data, analytics, and technology solutions. Headquartered in New York City, Refinitiv serves customers in over 190 countries. Contact: Media Relations Refinitiv US LLC [Hypothetical email address] 770-964-6545