Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
How to Invest in AI-Generated Assets: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
Ruby Layram
8th Apr 2025
The rise of AI has transformed almost every aspect of our lives – from the way we work to how we shop, bank, and even create. One of the most fascinating developments is the rise of AI-generated assets – digital creations made entirely or partially by machines.
But can you actually make money from AI-generated content? And more importantly, is it something worth adding to your investment portfolio?
In this guide, we’ll explore what AI-generated assets are, how to invest in them safely, and which platforms offer the best opportunities for beginners. We’ll also examine the risks, regulations, and ethical considerations that come with this futuristic form of investment.
What Are AI-Generated Assets?
AI-generated assets refer to creative or functional products made using artificial intelligence tools. These can include:
-
Digital art (created by models like DALL·E or Midjourney)
-
Music tracks (produced by tools like Aiva or Amper Music)
-
Written content (AI-generated books, poems, and scripts)
-
Code and software snippets (via tools like GitHub Copilot)
-
Collectibles and NFTs that are algorithmically generated
These assets can be monetised — bought, sold, licensed, or used to generate passive income.
1. Investing in AI-Generated Art
AI art is created when algorithms, often trained on massive datasets of existing images, produce new, unique artworks. These can be static (paintings, illustrations) or dynamic (video art, generative animations).
-
Limited-edition pieces can become collectibles.
-
Some artists (or algorithms) have already achieved fame.
-
Can be tied to NFTs, giving proof of ownership and scarcity.
Where to buy AI art:
-
Objkt.com – The largest marketplace for Tezos-based NFTs, including AI art.
-
SuperRare – High-end digital art platform (Ethereum-based).
-
Playform.io – Offers tools for artists and an online gallery of purchasable AI works.
2. AI-Generated Music and Audio
AI music generators like Aiva, Soundraw, and Amper Music let users create original tracks using machine learning. These are often used for film scores, video games, YouTube content and even commercial jingles.
Monetisation opportunities:
-
Use tracks for content monetisation (e.g., YouTube ad revenue)
-
Lease beats or loops on platforms like BeatStars
A word of caution: Ensure you have commercial rights to resell or license the music, especially with free AI tools.
3. Investing in AI-Driven Collectibles & NFTs
Many AI-generated assets are sold as NFTs (non-fungible tokens). These include everything from 10k avatar collections to interactive or “evolving” NFTs.
Popular AI-NFT projects:
-
Botto: A decentralised AI artist that produces weekly pieces, voted on by token holders.
-
Art Blocks: A platform for programmable and generative art.
-
AI Art House: Focuses on curated AI artwork sales.
What to look for when choosing an AI-NFT:
-
Scarcity : Limited editions often appreciate better than open editions.
-
Community: Strong engagement can indicate long-term viability.
-
Utility: Some NFTs give holders perks like voting rights, royalties, or early access.
4. Revenue Streams Beyond Buying & Selling
You don’t have to purchase expensive AI-generated assets to invest. You can also:
-
License AI-created media: Websites like LALAL.AI and Epidemic Sound are exploring AI-assisted licensing models.
-
Start an AI content business: Sell AI-written articles, design packs, or templates via Etsy or Creative Market.
Also read: How to make money from your own AI creations
Risks & Ethical Considerations
Before jumping in, consider:
Copyright grey areas
Many AI models are trained on existing work – often without the original creator’s permission. Legal precedents are still being established.
Tax implications
Profits from sales or trades may be subject to Capital Gains Tax (UK). NFTs, in particular, are under HMRC scrutiny. Read: NFT tax explained
Market volatility
Like all digital assets, AI-generated works can swing wildly in value and may be illiquid.
Top Tips Before You Invest
-
Start small: Try your hand with lower-cost platforms or even free ones.
-
Join communities: Twitter, Discord, and Reddit are full of artists, collectors and investors sharing insights.
-
Stay updated: The legal and ethical landscape is shifting fast. Use alerts and follow key creators.
-
Diversify: Don’t just invest in art. Explore AI music, licensing, or even AI-generated children’s books!
Recommended Resources
-
AIArtists.org – A directory and blog about AI art and the people making it
-
Moneymagpie.com – Passive income ideas
-
Moneymagpie.com – Beginner’s guide to crypto
Investing in AI-generated assets is still a frontier market– exciting, but unregulated and unpredictable.
If you’re curious, creative and willing to experiment, it could be a smart way to diversify a small part of your portfolio or even kick-start a profitable side hustle.
As with all investments, don’t risk more than you can afford to lose, and make sure you understand what you’re buying – whether it’s a pixelated monkey or a Bach-inspired AI symphony.
Leave a Reply