9+ Charizard EX Prices & Value Guide (2023)


9+ Charizard EX Prices & Value Guide (2023)

The market worth of a particular Charizard EX buying and selling card is set by a confluence of things, together with the cardboard’s situation, rarity, set it belongs to, and present market demand. For instance, a pristine, first-edition Charizard EX from a well-liked set like XYFlashfire might command a considerably greater value than a extra widespread model from a later launch in closely performed situation.

Understanding the forces influencing buying and selling card valuation is essential for each consumers and sellers. Collectors typically search particular playing cards to finish units or purchase notably uncommon and helpful items. Buyers, alternatively, may view sure playing cards as potential property, anticipating appreciation in worth over time. The historic efficiency of particular Charizard playing cards, notably early editions, has contributed to their desirability and value fluctuations inside the collectible card sport market.

This dialogue will additional discover the particular components impacting Charizard EX card valuations, providing insights into grading methods, market traits, and funding concerns. Further matters will cowl figuring out counterfeit playing cards and respected assets for purchasing and promoting these collectible gadgets.

1. Card Situation

Card situation is paramount in figuring out a Charizard EX’s worth. Even minor imperfections can considerably affect value, particularly for rarer playing cards. Collectors and buyers prioritize pristine examples, understanding that situation instantly correlates with market desirability and potential funding return.

  • Centering:

    A card’s centering refers to how properly the picture is positioned inside the borders. Off-center playing cards, even with in any other case minimal flaws, are sometimes downgraded by skilled grading companies, affecting their worth. A superbly centered Charizard EX is very wanted.

  • Floor Put on:

    Scratches, scuffs, and different floor imperfections detract from a card’s visible attraction and, consequently, its worth. Minor floor put on is extra tolerable on widespread playing cards, however on a helpful Charizard EX, it may well considerably cut back the worth. A pristine floor is good.

  • Edge Put on:

    Nicks, chips, and whitening alongside the perimeters are widespread types of put on. Whereas minor edge put on is perhaps acceptable on much less helpful playing cards, a Charizard EX with sharp, clear edges is mostly extra fascinating and instructions the next value.

  • Corners:

    Sharp, pointed corners are extremely valued, whereas rounded or blunted corners point out put on and reduce a card’s worth. Collectors typically scrutinize corners carefully, as even slight imperfections can affect the general grade and value of a Charizard EX.

These components collectively decide a card’s general grade, which instantly influences its market worth. A high-grade Charizard EX, exhibiting minimal put on throughout all these elements, will command a considerably greater value than a lower-grade instance, demonstrating the essential position of situation within the collectible card market.

2. Set Rarity

The set a Charizard EX originates from performs a vital position in figuring out its worth. Sure units are inherently rarer or extra fascinating attributable to restricted print runs, historic significance, or particular card designs. Understanding set rarity is important for collectors and buyers looking for to evaluate the potential worth of a Charizard EX.

  • Base Set vs. Expansions:

    Base units, sometimes the preliminary launch of a brand new Pokmon era, typically maintain higher worth attributable to their historic significance and established collector base. Charizard EX playing cards from base units, in the event that they exist, are usually extra wanted than these from later enlargement units, influencing their respective market costs.

  • Promotional Units:

    Sure Charizard EX playing cards had been launched as a part of promotional units or particular occasions. These playing cards, typically characterised by distinctive art work or foil remedies, sometimes have decrease print runs than normal set playing cards, making them scarcer and consequently extra helpful. For instance, a Charizard EX launched as a World Championship promo would possible be extremely wanted.

  • Restricted Print Runs:

    Some units are deliberately printed in smaller portions, creating synthetic shortage. This observe, typically employed for particular editions or commemorative releases, can considerably improve the worth of any Charizard EX playing cards inside these units attributable to their restricted availability.

  • Set Recognition:

    Total set reputation additionally contributes to particular person card values. Units that includes sought-after Pokmon, revolutionary mechanics, or compelling art work are typically extra fascinating, driving up the costs of all playing cards inside the set, together with Charizard EX variants. The perceived worth of a set instantly impacts the potential worth of its particular person playing cards.

By contemplating these components, collectors can start to grasp the advanced interaction between set rarity and market worth. A Charizard EX from a uncommon promotional set with a restricted print run, belonging to a well-liked sequence, will usually command a considerably greater value than a Charizard EX from a extra widespread enlargement set. This intricate relationship highlights the significance of set rarity within the valuation of collectible buying and selling playing cards.

3. Version (1st, limitless)

Distinguishing between first editions and limitless print runs is crucial for precisely assessing the worth of a Charizard EX card. First version playing cards, sometimes designated by a particular image on the cardboard itself, signify the preliminary print run of a selected set. Their restricted availability contributes considerably to their desirability and market worth in comparison with subsequent limitless printings.

  • First Version Designation:

    The presence of a “1st Version” mark, often a small round image situated close to the bottom-right nook of the cardboard’s art work, instantly distinguishes it as a primary version. This image acts as a assure of its restricted print run standing, a key issue driving its greater worth in comparison with limitless variations.

  • Shortage and Collectibility:

    First version playing cards, by definition, exist in smaller portions than limitless prints. This inherent shortage makes them extremely collectible, particularly for sought-after playing cards like Charizard EX. Collectors prioritize these restricted variations, growing demand and driving up their market value.

  • Funding Potential:

    The restricted provide and inherent collectibility of first version playing cards typically translate to higher funding potential. Traditionally, first version Charizard playing cards have proven important value appreciation over time, making them enticing property for collectors and buyers. Whereas market fluctuations exist, the shortage of first editions gives a basis for potential long-term worth development.

  • Limitless Editions:

    Limitless version playing cards lack the “1st Version” designation and are printed in bigger portions to satisfy market demand. Whereas nonetheless collectible, their higher availability usually ends in decrease market values in comparison with their first version counterparts. They provide a extra accessible entry level for collectors however sometimes show much less pronounced value appreciation over time.

The version of a Charizard EX, whether or not first version or limitless, considerably influences its market worth. The shortage and collectibility related to first editions contribute to their premium costs, whereas limitless editions supply a extra inexpensive choice. Recognizing these distinctions is paramount for knowledgeable decision-making within the collectible card market.

4. Market Demand

Market demand capabilities as a major driver of value fluctuation for collectible gadgets like Charizard EX playing cards. This precept of economics dictates that greater demand, coupled with restricted provide, sometimes ends in elevated costs. Conversely, diminished demand can result in value depreciation, even for inherently uncommon gadgets. A number of components contribute to the fluctuating demand for particular Charizard EX playing cards.

Present traits within the broader Pokmon Buying and selling Card Recreation market exert a major affect. Renewed curiosity within the franchise, pushed by new sport releases, standard on-line content material, or nostalgic revivals, typically interprets into heightened demand for related collectibles, together with iconic playing cards like Charizard EX. Particular Charizard playing cards featured in aggressive decks or match play additionally expertise surges in demand, as gamers search to accumulate the best playing cards. Movie star endorsements or high-profile gross sales of specific Charizard EX playing cards can create fast spikes in demand, driving costs upwards. For instance, a widely known streamer showcasing a particular Charizard EX card can set off a surge in curiosity and purchases, instantly impacting its market worth.

Understanding market demand is important for each consumers and sellers. Recognizing present traits, anticipating shifts in reputation, and monitoring exterior influences impacting the Pokmon TCG market gives helpful insights for navigating value fluctuations. Whereas inherent components like card situation and rarity contribute to a baseline worth, market demand in the end determines the prevailing value at any given second. Overlooking this dynamic facet can result in uninformed buying or promoting selections. Cautious remark of market traits and demand fluctuations permits for strategic shopping for and promoting, maximizing potential return on funding and enhancing the general amassing expertise.

5. Skilled Grading

Skilled grading considerably impacts the market worth of a Charizard EX card. Third-party grading companies, comparable to PSA (Skilled Sports activities Authenticator) and Beckett Grading Companies (BGS), assess playing cards based mostly on a standardized scale, sometimes starting from 1 to 10, with 10 representing a pristine, gem-mint situation. This goal evaluation gives a benchmark for consumers and sellers, lowering uncertainty and selling transparency inside the market. A professionally graded Charizard EX, particularly one receiving a excessive grade, typically instructions a considerably greater value than an ungraded equal. For instance, a PSA 10 graded Charizard EX from the Evolutions set might promote for a number of occasions the quantity of an ungraded copy in related situation. The grade assigned by these respected companies instantly influences perceived worth and consequently, the worth a collector or investor is keen to pay.

Submitting a Charizard EX for skilled grading requires cautious consideration. The grading course of includes charges, which range relying on the service supplier and the declared worth of the cardboard. Turnaround occasions may range, generally taking a number of weeks and even months. Whereas grading can considerably improve a card’s worth, it is important to weigh the prices and potential advantages. A card with noticeable imperfections is unlikely to attain a excessive grade, and the related grading charges may outweigh the potential value improve. Conversely, a near-mint card might considerably admire in worth after receiving a excessive grade, justifying the price of skilled evaluation. Moreover, encapsulation in a protecting case by the grading firm safeguards the cardboard in opposition to future injury, additional enhancing its long-term worth and preservation.

Skilled grading serves as a vital component influencing the worth of a Charizard EX. The assigned grade gives helpful details about the cardboard’s situation and authenticity, fostering confidence amongst consumers and establishing a transparent foundation for valuation. Whereas grading includes prices and logistical concerns, the potential for elevated worth and enhanced preservation typically makes it a worthwhile funding for homeowners of high-quality Charizard EX playing cards. Understanding the position {of professional} grading empowers knowledgeable decision-making, permitting each consumers and sellers to navigate the complexities of the collectible card market strategically.

6. Gross sales Platform (eBay, and so on.)

The gross sales platform chosen for purchasing or promoting a Charizard EX considerably influences its ultimate value. Completely different platforms cater to various demographics and supply various price buildings, purchaser/vendor protections, and viewers attain. These components contribute to cost variations for equivalent playing cards offered on completely different marketplaces. For instance, a Charizard EX offered on a specialised public sale web site devoted to collectible card video games may fetch the next value in comparison with the identical card offered on a extra basic on-line market attributable to a extra focused viewers of great collectors keen to pay a premium. Conversely, platforms with decrease vendor charges may appeal to extra aggressive pricing, doubtlessly benefiting consumers however leading to barely decrease realized income for sellers. Understanding these platform-specific nuances is essential for maximizing returns or securing advantageous purchases.

eBay, a outstanding on-line market, affords a broad viewers attain and a sturdy system for purchaser and vendor suggestions. This established status can present confidence for each events concerned in a transaction. Nevertheless, related charges can affect ultimate profitability for sellers. Specialised platforms or boards devoted to buying and selling card video games typically appeal to a extra educated and devoted collector base, doubtlessly resulting in greater costs for rarer Charizard EX playing cards. These specialised venues can also supply options like authentication companies or direct buying and selling choices, additional influencing value dynamics. Moreover, social media teams or personal gross sales, whereas providing potential value financial savings by bypassing platform charges, carry inherent dangers associated to transaction safety and potential fraud, impacting value negotiation and the chance of securing a good market worth.

Strategic platform choice is important for optimizing value outcomes. Sellers ought to take into account goal demographics, platform charges, viewers attain, and out there vendor instruments when selecting the place to listing their Charizard EX playing cards. Patrons, conversely, ought to consider platform status, purchaser protections, and the prevalence of counterfeit gadgets when looking for a particular card. Analyzing latest accomplished gross sales knowledge on varied platforms gives helpful market insights, enabling knowledgeable decision-making. Recognizing the affect of the chosen gross sales platform on the ultimate value is essential for navigating the complexities of the collectible card market successfully. Cautious consideration of those components ensures each consumers and sellers obtain their respective monetary targets and facilitates truthful market transactions.

7. Vendor Repute

Vendor status performs a vital position in figuring out the worth a Charizard EX card can command. Patrons usually tend to belief sellers with a confirmed monitor report of correct descriptions, safe packaging, and dependable delivery practices. This belief interprets right into a willingness to pay doubtlessly greater costs for the peace of mind of receiving an genuine card within the marketed situation. Conversely, sellers with poor reputations or a historical past of damaging suggestions might discover it troublesome to promote their playing cards, even at decrease costs, attributable to diminished purchaser confidence.

  • Suggestions and Rankings:

    On-line marketplaces typically incorporate suggestions methods, permitting consumers to fee their experiences with particular sellers. Constructive suggestions scores and excessive rankings domesticate belief, signaling reliability and professionalism. A vendor with persistently constructive suggestions concerning correct card descriptions and safe delivery practices can typically command greater costs for his or her Charizard EX playing cards. Conversely, damaging suggestions or low rankings can deter potential consumers, even when the listed value is beneath market worth.

  • Transaction Historical past:

    A vendor’s transaction historical past gives additional insights into their reliability. A considerable historical past of profitable gross sales, notably of high-value playing cards like Charizard EX, fosters confidence amongst potential consumers. This established historical past indicators experience and trustworthiness inside the collectible card group, doubtlessly justifying greater costs in comparison with sellers with restricted or damaging transaction histories.

  • Neighborhood Engagement:

    Energetic participation in on-line communities or boards associated to collectible card video games can contribute to a vendor’s status. Participating in discussions, providing experience, and constructing relationships inside these communities establishes credibility and fosters belief amongst potential consumers. This energetic presence can positively affect the costs a vendor can command for his or her Charizard EX playing cards, as consumers understand them as educated and dependable members of the amassing group.

  • Verification and Authentication:

    Sellers who proactively confirm the authenticity of their Charizard EX playing cards, both via self-verification or by using third-party authentication companies, improve purchaser confidence. This demonstrable dedication to transparency and authenticity can justify premium costs, as consumers are reassured of the cardboard’s legitimacy. Clear and detailed pictures, showcasing the cardboard’s situation and key options, additional bolster this belief and contribute to the vendor’s general status.

These components collectively contribute to a vendor’s status, instantly impacting the worth a Charizard EX card can command available in the market. A powerful, constructive status typically justifies greater costs, as consumers are keen to pay a premium for assurance and peace of thoughts. Conversely, a damaging or questionable status can considerably hinder gross sales, even at cheaper price factors. Understanding the affect of vendor status empowers each consumers and sellers to navigate the market successfully, guaranteeing truthful transactions and knowledgeable buying selections.

8. Present Market Traits

Present market traits exert a considerable affect on the worth of a Charizard EX buying and selling card. Understanding these traits gives essential context for each consumers and sellers, enabling knowledgeable selections and facilitating life like value expectations. Analyzing these traits includes analyzing latest gross sales knowledge, observing shifts in collector demand, and monitoring exterior components impacting the broader collectible card sport market. These mixed insights contribute to a complete understanding of present valuation dynamics.

  • Elevated Demand for Classic Playing cards:

    A resurgence in reputation for classic Pokmon playing cards has considerably impacted the worth of older Charizard EX playing cards. This renewed curiosity, typically pushed by nostalgia and the popularity of those playing cards as helpful collectibles, creates upward stress on costs. For instance, a primary version Charizard EX from an early set may expertise a considerable value improve attributable to this heightened demand from collectors looking for iconic playing cards from their childhood.

  • Affect of Influencer Tradition:

    The rising affect of social media personalities and on-line content material creators inside the amassing group has a demonstrable affect on market traits. A outstanding influencer showcasing a particular Charizard EX card or highlighting its rarity can set off a surge in demand, resulting in fast value will increase. This phenomenon underscores the significance of monitoring on-line traits and recognizing the affect of influencer tradition on market valuations.

  • Speculative Investing:

    The potential for important returns on funding has attracted speculative buyers to the collectible card sport market. This inflow of buyers, looking for to capitalize on anticipated value appreciation, can inflate costs for sought-after playing cards like Charizard EX. Whereas doubtlessly profitable, speculative investing introduces a component of volatility into the market, influencing value fluctuations and creating each alternatives and dangers for collectors.

  • Financial Components:

    Broader financial situations, comparable to inflation and market instability, can affect collector habits and affect demand for luxurious items like collectible buying and selling playing cards. Financial downturns may result in decreased demand and decrease costs, whereas durations of financial prosperity might gas elevated spending on collectibles, driving up costs for sought-after playing cards like Charizard EX. These macroeconomic components contribute to the general market local weather and not directly affect value traits.

By analyzing these interconnected market traits, collectors and buyers can acquire helpful insights into the forces driving value fluctuations for Charizard EX playing cards. Recognizing shifts in demand, monitoring influencer exercise, understanding the affect of speculative investing, and contemplating broader financial situations gives a complete framework for navigating the dynamic collectible card market and making knowledgeable selections concerning shopping for and promoting. These traits, whereas topic to alter, supply essential context for understanding present valuations and anticipating future market habits.

9. Funding Potential

The funding potential of a Charizard EX card is intrinsically linked to its market worth. Whereas the price of acquisition represents the preliminary funding, understanding the components that affect potential future worth is essential for collectors and buyers. Evaluating a Charizard EX as an funding requires cautious consideration of its rarity, situation, market traits, and potential for long-term appreciation.

  • Rarity and Exclusivity:

    Restricted print runs, particular editions, and promotional releases contribute to a card’s shortage. A Charizard EX from a limited-edition set, just like the Champion’s Path Shiny Charizard VMAX, inherently possesses higher funding potential attributable to its restricted availability. The shortage of sure Charizard EX variants drives demand amongst collectors, doubtlessly resulting in greater future valuations.

  • Situation and Grading:

    A card’s situation instantly impacts its funding potential. A pristine, professionally graded Charizard EX, notably one attaining a excessive grade from a good service like PSA, holds considerably higher funding potential than a broken or ungraded equal. Preserving a card’s situation via correct storage and dealing with safeguards its long-term worth and maximizes potential returns.

  • Market Traits and Demand:

    Fluctuations in market demand, pushed by components comparable to renewed curiosity within the Pokmon franchise, influencer endorsements, or aggressive play, instantly affect a card’s potential for appreciation. Analyzing present market traits and anticipating future demand permits buyers to determine Charizard EX playing cards with robust development potential. Understanding these traits is essential for making knowledgeable funding selections.

  • Lengthy-Time period Development Potential:

    Traditionally, sure Charizard playing cards have demonstrated substantial value appreciation over time, notably uncommon and extremely sought-after variants. This historic efficiency contributes to the perceived funding potential of Charizard EX playing cards, particularly these exhibiting fascinating traits like rarity, excessive grades, and growing market demand. Whereas previous efficiency doesn’t assure future returns, it gives helpful context for assessing long-term development potential.

Assessing the funding potential of a Charizard EX requires a complete understanding of those interconnected components. Whereas the preliminary value gives a place to begin, the potential for future appreciation, pushed by rarity, situation, market demand, and historic efficiency, in the end determines its long-term worth as an funding. Evaluating these components permits collectors and buyers to make knowledgeable selections and doubtlessly capitalize on the rising marketplace for collectible buying and selling playing cards.

Incessantly Requested Questions

This FAQ part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the valuation of Charizard EX playing cards, offering concise and informative responses to help collectors and buyers.

Query 1: What’s the most costly Charizard EX card?

The costliest Charizard EX sometimes varies relying on market situations. Nevertheless, traditionally, first-edition, gem-mint situation playing cards from units like XYFlashfire have commanded the very best costs, generally reaching 5 and even six figures at public sale.

Query 2: How does skilled grading have an effect on a Charizard EX’s worth?

Skilled grading from respected companies like PSA and BGS gives an goal evaluation of a card’s situation and authenticity. A excessive grade, comparable to a PSA 10, considerably will increase a Charizard EX’s worth, typically including a considerable premium in comparison with ungraded equivalents.

Query 3: Are all Charizard EX playing cards helpful?

Not all Charizard EX playing cards are equally helpful. Components like card situation, set rarity, version (1st version vs. limitless), and market demand significantly affect a particular card’s market value. Widespread Charizard EX playing cards in closely performed situation may need minimal worth, whereas uncommon, pristine variations might be fairly costly.

Query 4: How can one decide a Charizard EX card’s authenticity?

Cautious examination of card particulars, together with printing high quality, font consistency, and holographic patterns, may also help determine potential counterfeits. Evaluating the cardboard to verified photographs on-line and consulting with skilled collectors or respected sellers gives additional assurance of authenticity. Skilled authentication companies supply definitive verification.

Query 5: The place is the very best place to purchase or promote a Charizard EX?

Respected on-line marketplaces like eBay, specialised public sale websites for buying and selling playing cards, and devoted boards supply platforms for purchasing and promoting Charizard EX playing cards. Choosing the proper platform will depend on particular person wants and priorities, together with goal demographics, price buildings, and desired degree of purchaser/vendor safety. Due diligence and analysis are essential for choosing a safe and applicable market.

Query 6: Is investing in Charizard EX playing cards a good suggestion?

Like all funding, the worth of collectible playing cards can fluctuate. Whereas sure Charizard EX playing cards have proven important appreciation traditionally, there are inherent dangers. Thorough analysis, understanding market traits, and specializing in uncommon, high-grade playing cards are important for mitigating threat and maximizing potential returns. Diversification inside a broader funding portfolio can be advisable.

Understanding these key elements of Charizard EX valuation empowers knowledgeable decision-making for each seasoned collectors and people new to the market.

For additional info on amassing and investing in Pokmon playing cards, seek the advice of devoted assets and knowledgeable guides.

Suggestions for Figuring out Charizard EX Worth

Precisely assessing the worth of a Charizard EX buying and selling card requires cautious consideration of a number of components. The next ideas present sensible steering for navigating the complexities of the collectible card market and making knowledgeable selections.

Tip 1: Analysis Accomplished Gross sales Information:
Analyzing latest gross sales knowledge on respected platforms like eBay or specialised public sale websites gives a helpful benchmark for understanding present market values. Filtering searches by particular card attributes, comparable to set, version, and situation, permits for focused evaluation of comparable gross sales.

Tip 2: Prioritize Skilled Grading:
Submitting a Charizard EX for skilled grading from respected companies like PSA or BGS provides important worth, particularly for playing cards in near-mint situation. The assigned grade gives an goal evaluation of high quality and authenticity, growing purchaser confidence and justifying greater costs.

Tip 3: Scrutinize Card Situation:
Rigorously examine a Charizard EX for any imperfections, together with scratches, edge put on, nook injury, and centering points. Even minor flaws can considerably affect a card’s worth, particularly for rarer variations. Prioritizing playing cards in pristine situation maximizes funding potential.

Tip 4: Perceive Set Rarity:
Sure Charizard EX playing cards originate from rarer units, growing their inherent worth. Researching set print runs, historic significance, and collector demand gives insights into the potential long-term worth of particular playing cards. Restricted-edition or promotional units typically comprise probably the most helpful Charizard EX variants.

Tip 5: Confirm Version (1st vs. Limitless):
Distinguishing between first version and limitless print runs is essential. First version Charizard EX playing cards, designated by a particular image, are significantly rarer and extra helpful than limitless variations. Verifying the version ensures correct valuation.

Tip 6: Monitor Market Traits:
Staying knowledgeable about present market traits, influencer exercise, and shifts in collector demand permits for anticipating value fluctuations and making knowledgeable buying or promoting selections. Actively monitoring the market gives helpful insights for maximizing potential returns.

Tip 7: Consider Vendor Repute:
When buying a Charizard EX, take into account the vendor’s status. Constructive suggestions scores, detailed card descriptions, safe packaging practices, and a historical past of profitable transactions sign reliability and trustworthiness. A good vendor mitigates the dangers related to buying high-value collectibles.

By implementing these methods, collectors and buyers can successfully navigate the intricacies of the Charizard EX market, make knowledgeable selections, and doubtlessly maximize their returns. Understanding these interconnected components gives a framework for profitable amassing and investing in these extremely sought-after buying and selling playing cards.

The following tips present a powerful basis for knowledgeable decision-making inside the Charizard EX market. The next conclusion will summarize key takeaways and supply ultimate suggestions for profitable amassing and investing.

Conclusion

Figuring out the market worth of a Charizard EX buying and selling card requires a nuanced understanding of a number of interconnected components. Card situation, set rarity, version (1st version vs. limitless), market demand, skilled grading, gross sales platform, vendor status, present market traits, and funding potential all contribute to a card’s ultimate value. Overlooking any of those components can result in inaccurate valuations and uninformed buying or promoting selections. Thorough analysis, cautious examination of card particulars, and consciousness of market dynamics empower collectors and buyers to navigate the complexities of the collectible card sport market successfully.

The enduring reputation of Charizard, mixed with the inherent shortage of sure Charizard EX playing cards, suggests continued market curiosity and potential for future value appreciation. Nevertheless, market volatility stays a relentless consideration. Strategic decision-making, knowledgeable by a complete understanding of valuation components and market traits, is important for profitable amassing and investing in these iconic buying and selling playing cards. Diligent analysis and cautious consideration of the components outlined inside this evaluation present a framework for navigating the dynamic panorama of the Charizard EX market and making knowledgeable selections aligned with particular person amassing and funding targets.