(Newswire.net — October 26, 2023) —
With economic uncertainty on the rise, many investors are looking to tangible assets like physical gold and silver as a way to diversify and protect their wealth. When considering this strategy, one might wonder, Which Gold Bars Should You Buy For Investment? Precious metals have historically held their value during times of inflation or financial crisis. This makes gold bars an attractive investment for those seeking stability in their portfolio. According to industry reports, global demand for gold bars rose to 1,248 tons in 2021, a 31% increase from 2020.
Why Invest in Gold Bars?
There are several key benefits to buying physical gold bars:
- Hedge against inflation – With trillions in stimulus spending in recent years, many experts predict a rise in inflation. Gold has historically retained its purchasing power over time.
- Diversification – Gold prices often move independently from stocks and bonds. This makes it an effective portfolio diversifier.
- Tangible asset – You have full ownership and possession of the physical bars. Gold’s tangible nature makes it less susceptible to accounting fraud.
- Increased demand – Central banks around the world have become net buyers of gold, increasing overall demand.
- Safe haven asset – During times of geopolitical or economic crisis, gold prices tend to rise as investors flock to safe havens.
Most Popular Gold Bar Sizes
If you decide to invest in gold bars, you’ll have several size options to choose from:
1 Gram Gold Bars
One of the smallest gold bar sizes, 1 gram bars offer an affordable entry point for new gold investors. Major mints like PAMP Suisse and Valcambi produce 1 gram bars.
5 Gram Gold Bars
Slightly larger 5 gram gold bars remain highly popular. Well-known refineries such as Argor-Heraeus and Perth Mint manufacture 5 gram bars. The small size means increased portability and liquidity.
10 Gram Gold Bars
A common gold bar size, 10 gram gold bars are available from all major gold bar manufacturers. The larger size also means a lower premium compared to smaller bars.
1 Ounce Gold Bars
One of the best sizes for individual investors, 1 ounce gold bars carry the lowest premium. Many major mints produce 1 ounce gold bars, giving you plenty of branded options.
100 Gram Gold Bars
100 gram gold bars carry lower premiums than smaller sizes. Well-suited for larger investors, 100 gram bars are an efficient way to add a substantial amount of gold to your portfolio.
1 Kilo Gold Bars
The quintessential gold bullion bar, 1 kilo gold bars are ideal for institutional investors and those making a significant investment. Their large size also means the lowest premiums per ounce.
Top Gold Bar Brands and Mints
When buying gold bars, stick to reputable brands and mints like:
PAMP Suisse
This Swiss refinery is an industry leader in gold bar production, known for their high quality and security features like assay cards. PAMP gold bars feature the iconic Fortuna design.
Perth Mint
Operating since 1899, the Perth Mint is one of the oldest and most trusted gold refineries in the world. Their gold bars feature excellent craftsmanship and come with a certificate of authenticity.
Credit Suisse
A globally recognized Swiss bank, Credit Suisse gold bars offer investors the stability and trust of a top financial institution.
Johnson Matthey
This British assayer and refinery has been producing gold bars since the 1800s. Their gold bars feature unique serial numbers and a stylized logo.
Valcambi
Founded in 1961, Valcambi has pioneered modern gold bar production. They are a leader in CombiBar technology, which allows easy divisibility of gold bars.
Sunshine Minting
An American precious metals mint founded in 1979, Sunshine Minting is known for their innovative security features like anti-counterfeiting technology.
Where to Buy Gold Bars
You can purchase physical gold bars through:
- Local coin shops – Established dealers are a trusted source, though premiums are higher.
- Precious metals brokers – They offer competitive pricing but delivery can take longer.
- Online bullion dealers – Buying online means convenience and lower premiums but less personalized service.
- Auctions – You can sometimes find deals on gold bars through auction sites, but beware of fakes.
When evaluating dealers, look for companies with strong reputations and multiple customer reviews. Compare pricing across various platforms to find the best deal on your gold bar purchase.
Storing and Securing Your Gold Bars
Since physical gold bars are valuable, invest in proper storage and security:
- Home safes – Bolt large safes to the floor in discreet areas of your home to protect against theft.
- Safe deposit boxes – Bank safe deposit boxes provide robust security, though access is limited.
- Third-party vaults – Specialty vault providers offer state-of-the-art security like biometric access.
- Home security system – Deter break-ins with security cameras, motion sensors, and fireproof safes.
You may also want to consider private vault insurance for full protection.
Is Now the Time to Invest in Gold Bars?
With inflation concerns and stock market volatility, many investors believe now is an opportune time to add physical gold bars to their portfolio. Gold can provide a reliable store of value and diversification during times of crisis. As with any investment, proper due diligence is advised before buying gold bars. Consider consulting a financial advisor to determine if it aligns with your investment strategy and risk tolerance.