There are hundreds of oxidative catalysts available, comprised of dozens of different transition metals in various oxidative states, with various ligands, etc. However, palladium is unique because it yields specifically alpha-methyl ketones from terminal olefins, while others would result in the formation of epoxides or diols - both quite useful, but requiring an additional isomerization step to form the ketone, costing time, money, and product.
Still, its good to keep in mind. Perhaps some day palladium will become more difficult to obtain (especially with the prices going up as they are), and its smart strategy to have other options.