VOICED: In hard times, Turks hock antique heirlooms

The antiques district in Istanbul is thriving with stock but struggling with sales due to economic hardships. Many Turkish households are in debt, forcing them to sell family heirlooms and even essential items. Antique dealers face challenges as sales drop, and they seek alternative income by renting items to production companies. The crisis has led to fewer advertisements, impacting their business further.

What has the antiques district in Istanbul become for buyers?

• A historical site

• A buyer's paradise

• A seller's nightmare

• A tourist attraction

Why are many Turkish households selling family heirlooms?

• To upgrade their belongings

• To move to a new house

• To invest in stocks

• To pay off debts

What extreme measures are people taking due to financial struggles?

• Selling their homes

• Selling their cars

• Selling their businesses

• Selling essential appliances

How are antique dealers trying to supplement their income?

• By opening new shops

• By hiring items out to production companies

• By increasing prices

• By exporting goods

What is one reason for the slow business in hiring items to production companies?

• Lack of interest in antiques

• High rental prices

• Increased competition

• Budget cuts in advertising