Precious metals: gold, silver, platinum, diamonds
Substance instead of promises – what physical precious metals can and cannot do in a portfolio.
The role of precious metals in a portfolio
Gold and other precious metals generate no ongoing income. Their value lies elsewhere: they are scarce, tradable worldwide, independent of any issuer and accepted as a store of value for centuries. That is why they are usually viewed not as a return component but as a stability and crisis reserve within a broader wealth structure.
Physical or paper?
Physical metal in your own possession differs fundamentally from certificates, ETCs or mining shares. The latter are convenient and liquid but carry issuer, counterparty or company risk. Physical ownership in turn demands answers on storage, insurance and authenticity. Which form fits depends on the purpose – reserve, trading or long-term accumulation.
Storage, costs and liquidity
When buying, the premium over spot, denomination and tradability matter. For storage, the questions are access, security and jurisdiction: a home safe, a bank deposit box or a bonded warehouse outside the banking system each have advantages and drawbacks. Diamonds are a special case – valuation is more individual and the market less transparent.
What to look for
Standardised bars and coins from recognised mints, traceable prices, reputable dealers with a buy-back practice, and a storage solution you understand. Tax treatment and reporting duties differ by country and metal – that, too, belongs in the consideration before buying.
Questions about precious metals?
First purchase, storage or reallocation – in a conversation we put your situation into context.
Book a conversationOur role
We provide general information on physical precious metals and, on request, introduce you to dealers or storage solutions from our network – as a referrer, without investment advice or brokerage. Specific prices, providers and terms are discussed in person only.
Notice
This page is for general information and constitutes neither an offer nor a recommendation. Precious metal prices fluctuate; a purchase can lead to losses. Please clarify tax and legal questions with your adviser.