Should I Keep the Profit from Reselling Concert Ticket?

Some people don’t just “borrow” plans, they borrow your whole weekend. In this Reddit post, OP thought they were making room for a barely-friend who kept showing up when it benefited him, then disappearing when it didn’t.

The situation gets messy fast: OP and a friend wanted to camp out a week early for a notoriously intense, barricade-hunting band. A guy they barely knew invited himself along, OP covered his Airbnb portion because he promised cash later, and OP even coordinated the ticket transfers so everything sat neatly on his phone. Then, after OP is already thinking about gas, food, and getting there early, he suddenly texts that he doesn’t want to go and wants the tickets sold.

Now OP is staring at $500-plus resale prices for a ticket they originally paid $200 for, and wondering if keeping the profit makes them the bad guy.

Original Post

Hey y’all, I’m having conflicting thoughts on this matter, and I need a second opinion that doesn’t come from my friends. One of my “friends” (barely at that) invited himself to go to a concert with another friend and me, and after some hesitation, we decided to let him join us.

We were hesitant because last year he had asked us to go to a concert with him, and a month before the show, he texted me and said that he wanted to go to a different event and that he would sell all of our tickets. It turns out that the tickets sold pretty fast, but it took me asking him about the tickets for him to send the money from them.

Regardless, we were all pretty excited for the show and had already booked an Airbnb, which I covered his portion of because he said he would give me cash in person, which is whatever because I wasn’t worried about it. This band is pretty well-known for having fans that camp out a WEEK in advance to get barricade, and my friend and I really wanted to be as close as we could, so we mentioned getting there the day before the show (which I know sounds crazy).

He texts me a day later and tells me that he doesn’t want to go anymore and to sell it. I know that it’s crazy, but it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I understand that not everyone wants to do that.

However, resale for just one ticket goes for $500+ when we originally paid $200 per ticket. Am I the a*****e for wanting to keep the profit and put it toward the gas & food to get us to the show?

I know that technically it is his ticket, but I have all three tickets on my phone because I originally bought them, and I had the other two transfer the money to me.
Edit: He DID send me the money after I got the tickets back in June. The show is in about a week and a half from today.

He did NOT send me money for the Airbnb. Sorry for any confusion!

Highlights the complex moral dilemmas surrounding the controversial practice of ticket reselling. Individuals often grapple with conflicting values—namely, the pursuit of profit versus the principles of fairness and equity in society. This conflict is particularly pronounced in scenarios where access to events is limited, raising questions about who truly deserves to attend.

In this specific case, the original poster (OP) faces a choice that reflects broader societal tensions about entitlement and ownership. The decision they make not only impacts their own financial situation but also has implications for others who may be affected by their actions. Understanding these ethical frameworks can significantly guide their decision-making process, allowing them to weigh personal gain against social responsibility and consider the potential consequences of their choices on the wider community.

Comment from u/TigerRavenLily

Comment from u/tryagain904

That’s when the “barely a friend” invite goes from annoying to downright suspicious, especially after last year he pulled the same move with the tickets.</p>

The endowment effect, a fascinating concept explored by behavioral economists, suggests that individuals often overvalue what they own simply because they possess it. This psychological bias can lead the original poster (OP) to justify keeping the profit, viewing it as a deserved reward for their efforts rather than considering it a potential moral misstep. This inclination to see one's own possessions as more valuable than they are can cloud judgment and decision-making.

By recognizing this bias, the OP may be able to approach their decision with a more objective mindset. It is essential to consider the broader implications of their actions, looking beyond immediate financial gain to assess the ethical dimensions involved. Balancing personal benefits with moral considerations could ultimately lead to a more thoughtful and responsible choice, fostering a greater sense of integrity in their dealings.

Comment from u/ScarletNotThatOne

Comment from u/Cool-Tomato-5868

The Emotional Impact of Financial Decisions

The OP’s desire to use the profit for concert-related expenses highlights this stress, emphasizing the importance of financial clarity in influencing mental health. It is crucial to acknowledge how financial pressures can affect not only our day-to-day decisions but also our overall emotional state. By understanding the relationship between financial stability and mental health, individuals can better navigate their circumstances and make informed choices that promote both their financial and psychological well-being.

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Comment from u/allmykitlets

OP even covered his Airbnb portion because he swore he’d pay in cash, which makes the sudden “sell it” text hit way harder.</p>

Research suggests that emotional reactions can significantly influence the experience of regret in decision-making processes. This is particularly relevant in situations where choices are driven by strong feelings, as these emotions can cloud judgment and lead to hasty decisions. By pausing to reflect on their feelings before making a choice, the OP can better assess whether their motivations stem from a genuine desire for financial relief or perhaps a deeper sense of entitlement that may not serve their best interests.

Taking a moment to consider the long-term consequences of their choice is crucial; it may help them avoid potential pitfalls and lead to a more satisfying resolution. Understanding the underlying motivations can pave the way for more informed and thoughtful decision-making, ultimately fostering a sense of empowerment and clarity in their choices.

Also, this feels like the Diablo 2R “loot goblin” arguing with group members over grabbing loot first.

Comment from u/yago1980

Comment from u/York-Cravensworth-22

Practical Solutions for Ethical Decision-Making

This approach not only establishes a framework for decision-making but also promotes trust among all stakeholders involved.

Comment from u/Individual-Mall-6914

Comment from u/5PeeBeejay5

And because the band’s fans camp a WEEK early for barricade, OP is basically trying to turn this into a once-in-a-lifetime plan, not a quick financial flip.</p>

Ultimately, aligning financial decisions with personal values can lead to healthier choices and a greater sense of fulfillment. This alignment not only fosters a sense of integrity but also encourages individuals to make choices that resonate with their core beliefs. One practical approach is to develop a systematic framework for evaluating future financial decisions based on ethical considerations, allowing for a more thoughtful and deliberate process.

Immediate steps to initiate this journey include journaling about the reasons behind their choices, which can help clarify motivations and reinforce personal values. Short-term actions could involve engaging in discussions about financial ethics with friends or family, creating a support network that encourages accountability. Additionally, longer-term strategies might include seeking professional advice on ethical financial practices, ensuring that financial goals are met without compromising one's values or principles.

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We'd love to hear your take on this situation. Share your thoughts below.

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Comment from u/roosterSause42

The twist is OP says he DID send the money for the tickets after getting them back in June, but still hasn’t paid for the Airbnb, so the moral math is brutal.</p>

The situation surrounding the resale of the concert ticket taps into a broader ethical dilemma that many face in similar circumstances. This case illustrates how personal values come into play when making decisions that can impact relationships and self-perception. The original poster's choice to keep the substantial profit of $500 from a ticket that was initially purchased for much less raises questions about fairness and loyalty. When individuals navigate these types of decisions, they often reflect on what principles guide their actions. Aligning choices with deeply held values can lead to a sense of satisfaction, whereas decisions based solely on financial gain might result in lingering regret. In this instance, the emotional weight of the friendship and the financial temptation creates a complex emotional landscape that the original poster must navigate.

OP might not be wrong for wanting the profit, but this friend sure is acting like favors are refundable.

Before you decide, check out the millionaire’s daughter who racked up credit card debt and got told she was “playing poor”.