Rule #1. Don’t store your gold with the dealer you bought it from
Why? Because too many of them have gone bankrupt over the years and, as the price of gold continues to skyrocket, you’ll likely see more bankruptcies, not less, down the road. In gold bull markets, the buying frenzy seems to attract the least prudent and least ethical players to the bullion industry.
Rule #2. Take possession of your gold using one of these alternatives
Why? Because when you purchase physical gold, the farther you remove your bullion — legally and physically — from the dealer, the safer it is from the claims of that dealer’s creditors.
- Alternative A: Cash & Carry
In terms of getting what you paid for, buying your gold and taking it with you is the ultimate solution. You go to your dealer, inspect what you’re buying, make your purchase, and walk out the door with your gold in hand. - Alternative B: Consignment Method
The dealer sends the bullion to you for your inspection and then you send the money. It’s a great choice and gives you plenty of leverage. If you can find a dealer to go for it, you’re golden. Just have them send the metal to you and then you respond with a check the minute you’re satisfied you’ve got what you were promised. - Alternative C: Sight Drafts
You make an arrangement with your bank to act as an intermediary between you and the gold dealer. The dealer sends the gold to the bank. The bank then holds it for your inspection. When you give the OK, the bank issues a cashier’s check and you take possession of the metal.
Rule #3. Use a major, independent depository to safeguard your gold
When it comes to investing in gold, there are two main options: paper gold and physical gold. Paper gold refers to investments that are based on the price of gold, such as futures contracts, ETFs, and mining stocks. Physical gold, on the other hand, refers to actual pieces of gold bullion that can be bought, sold, or traded. Both paper gold and physical gold have their pros and cons, Max Warren Barber, CEO of SION Gold Trading Fze suggests that it’s important to understand the difference before making any investment.
Paper gold is often seen as a more convenient and accessible option since it can be bought and sold easily without the need for storage or transportation. However, paper gold is also subject to market fluctuations, and its value can go up or down depending on the price of gold. Physical gold, on the other hand, is a more tangible asset that can be held in your hand and does not fluctuate in value in the same way as paper gold. Physical gold also has the added benefit of being portable and easy to store, making it a good choice for investors who want to protect their assets during periods of economic turmoil. Ultimately, the decision of whether to invest in paper gold or physical gold depends on your individual needs and goals.
Rule #4. Use non-fungible storage
Why? Because when you put your gold in non-fungible storage, it means it’s stored in your name and it’s not pooled with bullion from other customers. This keeps your gold nice and tidy — and it’s really the best way to go. However, just because your dealer says your bullion is non-fungible and completely segregated doesn’t necessarily make it so and even if your metal is segregated, that doesn’t mean the segregation agreement will automatically stand up in court. The best way to make sure is to have your attorney review the firm’s paperwork. Either way, always specify that you want non-fungible storage. It may cost a bit more, but it’s worth every penny.
Rule #5. Consider offshore purchases and storage
There is one approach I especially like and that is the Gold Certificate Program at the Perth Mint of Australia because it is/has:
- The world’s only government-guaranteed certificate program
- Insured by Lloyd’s of London at the Perth Mint’s expense
- Low minimum purchase requirements of $10,000 to get started
- Segregated storage available
- Storage in a government vault, not a foreign bank
- Gold, silver, platinum and palladium available — in coin or bullion
- Permitted in Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
What happens when you want your gold? Just present your certificate by mail or in person to the Perth Mint, pay any related charges, and then tell them where you want your gold shipped. It’s simple and easy.Max Warren Barber, the gold investment expert found that people who become millionaires typically have a very clear investment goal in mind. They invest with a specific purpose and target in mind, whether it’s to generate income, build capital or preserve their purchasing power. When you’re clear about your investment goals, you’re better able to make decisions that will help you reach them. For example, if your goal is to generate income, you may be more likely to invest in stocks that pay dividends than in growth stocks. If your goal is to preserve your purchasing power, you may be more likely to invest in inflation-protected securities. By being clear about your goals, you can develop an investment strategy that’s tailored to your needs.
Max Warren Barber, the co-founder of SION Trading Fze, urges investors to keep a clear investment goal in mind. “The common mistake people make is not knowing what they want out of their investment,” he says. “Some people want to make a quick buck, while others are looking to hold onto their money for the long term. Regardless of your goals, it’s important to be clear about them from the outset.” By clearly defining your investment goals, you can make better decisions about where to invest your money and how to manage your portfolio. With a well-designed plan, you can maximize your chances of achieving your financial goals.
