The art world in numbers
Dealers, auctions & online
Dealers still account for most value. Public auctions led the 2025 rebound; online-only sales slipped as high-end buying returned to live rooms.
2025 value mix
Dealers & galleries
$34.8B · +2% YoY
Still the majority of value. Growth was only +2% in 2025, with costs rising faster than sales for many firms.
Online-only share of total sales
Online peaked at 25% in 2020, then drifted down as live rooms and fairs reclaimed high-end value. In 2025 it was 15% ( $9.2B).
Online remains important for mid and lower prices and for reaching new buyers, but it is no longer the emergency channel it was in 2020. The high end prefers presence, viewing rooms, fairs, and evening sales.
Figures summarized from The Art Basel & UBS Art Market Report 2026 by Arts Economics. © Art Basel / UBS / Arts Economics. Official report site.