Allocated & segregated storage of precious metals in Switzerland

Various gold and silver bars

Allocated & Segregated Storage – The Gold Standard for Precious Metals Storage Summary of allocated & segregated storage of precious metals Bank-independent allocated & segregated storage of precious metals and other assets in Switzerland at Swiss Gold Safe represents an alternative to traditional safe deposit boxes. In particular, this arrangement offers a convenient way to […]

Silver storage: Top precious-metal options

Several Vienna Philharmonic silver coins lying on bars.

Storing silver: A guide to everything you need to know Storing silver: A guide to everything you need to know Why Silver is a Strong Investment Option How to Store Silver Safely Outside the EU VAT-Free Silver Storage in Switzerland Silver Coins for Collectors and Investors Silver Bars for Investors Tax Guidance on Importing Silver […]

Ludwig Karl

Swiss Gold Safe Expertise Economics Expert: Ludwig Karl Swiss Gold Safe represents nearly two decades of secure custody, IT, and precious metals expertise encompassed within a single entity. Such expertise is invariably acquired and defined by the people who represent Swiss Gold Safe. Thus, to ensure every client and all interested parties always receive reliable, […]

The ounce: A unit of measurement for precious metal bars & coins

Various one ounce coins next to each other

One ounce of gold – the common standard for bars and coins One ounce of gold – a summary Gold coins and gold bars are available in many different denominations. Their primary feature is the weight of the product. One troy ounce (weighing 31.1034768 grams) has become the standard unit for precious metals. In addition, […]

Various taxes on gold in Switzerland

Gold coins and gold bars

Taxes on gold in Switzerland Gold taxes applicable when buying and owning precious metal Physical precious metals are special material assets valued by private individuals and institutions for wealth building or as protection against potential loss of purchasing power, and high-value gold is very important here. The same applies to tax on purchases and ownership, […]

A safe deposit box power of attorney creates more flexibility

Open safe deposit box with money and documents.

The advantages of creating a power of attorney for a safe deposit box The difference between individual and collective authorisation A safe deposit box at Swiss Gold Safe in Switzerland or Liechtenstein offers many advantages for the secure, bank-independent storage of precious metals, documents, jewellery, watches and similar assets. Clients unable to attend personally to […]

Information about palladium

View over the town of Schwyz

Information about palladium Palladium is a chemical element. Since it behaves in a chemically similar fashion to platinum, the silvery white transition metal belongs to a group known as the platinum metals. As a precious metal, palladium is just as hard, durable and electrically conductive as others in the group. One difference worth noting is […]

Libertad: a classic bullion coin in gold & silver

Gold bars and gold coins in bulk.

Libertad: A Mexican investment coin with a long history Summary The Libertad is a Mexican investment coin with no fixed face value, mainly produced in gold and silver versions In 1991, the fineness of the gold Libertad, which was first minted in 1981, rose from 90% to 99.9% The silver Libertad, which came onto the […]

Lunar: animal-themed gold/silver bullion coins

Obverse and reverse of a 2014 Year of the Horse silver lunar coin

The Lunar: An Australian bullion coin with collector-appeal and a Chinese connection Summary Australia’s Lunar coins are bullion coins available in gold and silver. Gold Lunar coins issued since 1996 have a very high fineness of 999.9/1000. Silver Lunar coins have been available since 1999, although the silver content only increased from 99.9% to 99.99% […]

Australian Nugget Kangaroo: Gold and silver coins from Down Under

Front and back of a Australian Kangaroo coin made of gold

Australian Kangaroo: investment coin & record holder Summary The Australian Kangaroo, initially called The Australian Nugget, is an Australian bullion coin available in gold, silver and platinum versions The most popular coins are the Gold Kangaroo and the Silver Kangaroo, which Australia’s Perth Mint has been producing since 1986 and 2015 respectively Both coins have […]

China Panda: a popular Asian investment coin

Front and back of a China Panda coin made of gold

The Chinese Panda: one of Asia’s most popular bullion coins Summary The China Panda is a Chinese investment coin available in gold, silver, platinum and palladium versions The most important editions are the gold panda issued from 1982 and the silver panda first minted in 1983 The gold panda has a fineness of 999/1000 From […]

American Eagles: sought-after gold & silver coins

One gold and one silver American Eagle coin.

American Eagle: probably the most popular US investment coin Summary The American Eagle is a US investment coin available in gold, silver and platinum The American Gold Eagle and American Silver Eagle, first issued in 1986, are the most important versions The American Gold Eagle has a gold content of 91.67% The fineness rating of […]

Paper gold products compared to physical precious metal

Bull and bear in front of stock market prices

Using paper gold to build wealth Paper-backed gold and how it differs from physical precious metal The financial world uses numerous technical terms and expressions that can be very confusing, especially for beginners. They are often used synonymously – including the term paper gold. This collective term has become established in informal language for numerous […]

Gold investments: The different options available

Gold bars and gold coins in bulk.

The ultimate guide to investing in gold The Ultimate Guide to Investing in Gold What is Investment Gold? The advantages of Gold Coins What Gold Bars can offer How to Buy Gold Safely What is vaulted Gold? Is a Gold account at a bank an option? ETFs as an alternative Physical Gold vs. Paper Gold […]

Fairtrade gold & sustainable precious metal mining

Image of a growing plant as a symbol of sustainability and environmental protection.

The importance of Fairtrade Gold and other green concepts Sustainably produced precious metals to meet the demands of a modern world Sustainability is gradually affecting all areas of life, and has become important in the precious metals industry over recent years. Here, the predominant focus is on the social and ecological consequences of primary gold […]

Air-conditioned safe deposit boxes for watches

Rolex watch with replacement bracelets

Secure storage of watches in a safe deposit box Perfect protection for your valuable timepieces in an ideal climate For many, a watch is more than just a simple timepiece, it’s a status symbol and an investment – especially a luxury wristwatch. Anyone investing in several premium-brand watches, e.g. Breitling, Chopard, Glashütte Original, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega, […]

A private safe deposit box for documents: Secure and discreet

Opened safe deposit box with cash and documents

A private safe deposit box for documents Switzerland and Liechtenstein offer all these benefits Safe deposit boxes are a secure storage solution not only for assets, such as gold bars or jewellery, but also for the secure storage of all kinds of documents: wills, contracts, valuable letters and similar original items. A safe deposit box […]

Secure and discreet safe deposit boxes for jewellery

several golden jewellery pieces on a reflective background

Non-bank safe deposit boxes for jewellery Store assets securely in Switzerland or Liechtenstein Collectors of fine jewellery appreciate just how valuable it really is. Diamonds, gemstones, valuable necklaces and rings require secure, value-preserving storage in ideal climatic conditions. Directly accessible wall- or furniture safes in your own home may be practical, but many leave a […]

Precious-metal safe deposit boxes in Switzerland & Liechtenstein

various gold coins and bars on a black background

The ideal safe deposit box for precious metals Maximum discretion and bank independence outside the EU Gold bars, coins and white precious metals are very popular asset preservation options for savers and collectors. Tangible assets can offer versatile protection against inflation, stabilise pensions, and offset risks and losses. At the same time, investments held at […]

Safe deposit boxes for cash in Switzerland and Liechtenstein

Person in suit showing an open bank safe deposit box

A safe deposit box for cash Store banknotes securely and discreetly in Switzerland or Liechtenstein Alongside tangible assets like precious metals and jewellery, cash is also used for asset security. However, secure storage is essential because banknotes are acceptable almost anywhere, and can be used by anyone. Home safes and bank safe deposits are convenient […]

Deciphering hallmarks & stamps on precious metal products

Diamant Solitär Ring aus Weisgold vor schwarzem Hintergrund

Stamps and hallmarks on precious metals Common markings on watches, jewellery and bullion goods Authentic jewellery, luxury watches and bullion coins and bars are considered material assets for securing private assets. Precious metals, especially gold, silver, platinum and palladium, have enjoyed an enduring reputation for value stability. They can protect against inflation, serve as an […]

Switzerland’s Valcambi: World’s largest precious-metal refinery

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

Valcambi is the largest refinery in the world The Swiss refinery that processes 2,000 tons of precious metal every year Switzerland’s Valcambi is not only one of the oldest precious metal refineries, but also the largest refinery in the world. More than 2,000 tons of gold, silver, platinum and palladium are processed annually on its […]

Umicore from Belgium: Leader in recycling & material technologies

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

Umicore: The Belgian precious metal refinery that champions sustainability Leading group for recycling and material technologies Gold bar manufacturer Umicore, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, has been an active metal refiner for more than 200 years. Now considered a global leader in materials technology and recycling, Umicore is involved in diverse industrial sectors: energy, automotive, chemicals, […]

PAMP Suisse: Major Swiss precious metal refinery of global repute

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

PAMP Suisse – A leading precious metal brand A world-leading Swiss precious metals refinery since 1977 The Swiss company PAMP Suisse is one of the world’s best-known refineries. Founded in 1977 in Castel San Pietro, in the canton of Ticino, the company gained LBMA approval just a few years later to facilitate international precious metal […]

Metalor: The first Swiss LBMA-certified precious metal refinery

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

Metalor: From Swiss rolling mill to a global player Precious metal refinery, advanced coatings and electrotechnics In 1934, Metalor became the first precious metal refinery in Switzerland to be listed as a certified bullion manufacturer by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). The company’s roots go back to 1852, when “preliminary rolling mills” were built […]

Heraeus Precious Metals: Leading industrial precious-metal trader

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

Heraeus Precious Metals – a German technology group The first German platinum smelter dates back to 1851 Germany’s Heraeus Precious Metals refinery, one of the world’s largest precious metal smelters, is considered a major player in industrial precious metal. This technology group supplies a wide range of automotive, chemical, semiconductor, medical, jewellery and hydrogen products, […]

Argor-Heraeus: A renowned Swiss precious-metal refinery

Precious metal bars made of gold and silver against a white background

Argor-Heraeus: High-quality precious metal bars from Switzerland Renowned manufacturer of exclusive bullion products with a long-established trading history Argor-Heraeus is another major Swiss precious-metals refinery. This internationally renowned Ticino-based company (current annual production around 800 tons) is one of the world’s oldest refineries. Primarily supplying gold bars to end customers and wholesalers, the company also […]

Discontinued bank safe deposit facilities: An alternative option

zahlreiche goldene Bankschliessfächer

Discontinued bank safe deposit facilities: An alternative option More and more customers have recently received similar letters or emails from their bank relaying what is likely to be far from welcome news: The offending communication from their chosen credit institution announces the complete withdrawal of safe deposit box rental facilities. Loyal, long-established bank customers are […]

Buy & store palladium coins – a newcomer’s guide

Palladium coin of one ounce Palladium Eagle

Palladium coins: vital information about their history, specimen editions, purchasing and storage When the media mention coins for collectors or coins as an investment, the focus is usually on gold coins. And while silver coins too attract a certain amount of attention, platinum coins are generally considered a more exotic and unusual choice. By comparison, […]

Buy palladium bars & arrange smart, secure storage

Close-up of a one ounce Palladium bar

Palladium bars: Core information about their history, palladium essentials, optimal purchase and storage When it comes to buying precious metal bars, many prospective investors are inclined to consider gold bars as their primary option. Only after that do they look elsewhere, at which point alternatives such as silver bars or platinum bars often come into […]

Storing gold in a safe deposit box in a secure jurisdiction

Picture with a flag of Liechtenstein and a flag of Switzerland

A safe deposit box abroad has many advantages Store your assets in Switzerland or Liechtenstein Physical precious metals, jewellery or crypto wallets can represent considerable wealth, especially gold coins or bars. Such valuables are commonly used as a hedge against inflation, or to diversify an investment portfolio primarily comprising stocks and real estate. But risk […]

Carat vs. Fineness: Understanding gold purity

Image of various 24 carat and 22 carat gold coins

The importance of carat and fineness in gold Gold has fascinated people for thousands of years, perhaps because its lustre and value have made it an object of desire for many cultures. But not every piece of gold is the same. Two concepts or units of measurement are commonly employed to indicate the purity and […]

Good Delivery Bars: Quality-assured precious-metal

View over a rhododendron field in the Alps

Good Delivery Bars: The ‘gold standard’ in international precious metal trading To facilitate efficient trading, it is always best to secure precious metals in a standardised format. Cast ingots, created by pouring molten metal into an ingot mould where it is allowed to cool, have had a significant impact as regards the adoption of uniform […]

A guide to buying & storing investment gold

Two gold bars weighing 250 g each with a fineness of 999.9

Buying and storing investment gold: Some things you need to know As Shakespeare reminds us: All that glitters is not gold. However, for investors, it’s just as important to know that not all kinds of gold are equally suitable for savings and investment purposes. Many financial experts recommend buying gold. However, they don’t mean the […]

Tangible assets as alternative inflation protection for savers

Gold bars and gold coins against a black background

Material assets as protection against inflation Alternative solutions for savers looking to preserve their assets What’s the best way to protect your savings in today’s climate? Many savers ask themselves this question because these assets are earmarked for retirement purposes or destined to become an inheritance. Wherever possible, inflation should not consume everything. So, over […]

Buy precious metals at Echtgeld and store them at Swiss Gold Safe

Two men shake hands

Buy silver or gold from the precious metal market and store it safely The successful collaboration between Swiss Gold Safe and Echtgeld Investing in precious metals and arranging appropriate storage demands a trustful relationship. Furthermore, many busy investors would prefer a comprehensive single-source service. Although Swiss Gold Safe is a specialist storage-provider and not a […]

Precious metal bars and coins: the fundamentals

Several gold coins and bars

Basic knowledge: Bars and coins made from precious metals Anyone wishing to invest in physical precious metals without professional support must know all the most important technical terms, be able to differentiate weight units and fineness, and understand the advantages and disadvantages of bars or coins. A grasp of these essentials will help you pick […]

Buying vault gold: The pros and cons of storing it for yourself

Picture of a vault door.

Vaulted gold vs storing your own holdings Buying gold and storing gold each call for different strategies Anyone seeking gold investments has various options such as: gold securities, gold-mining stocks, gold deposits, gold savings plans and physical precious metals. Your ownership and management plans will determine your investment strategy. Potential investors will also encounter the […]

Safe deposit box bequests upon the death of the holder

Image of a safe deposit box and a will.

Safe deposit box bequests What happens to a safe deposit box when a death occurs? Safe deposit boxes are ideal for securing private assets, cash and important documents. Many people use the facilities of specialist providers because they find them more discreet than bank safe deposit boxes. Access is restricted to the tenant or their […]

A stored gold legacy – provisions & bequests

Image of a safe deposit box and a will.

Bequeathing precious metals in individual custody What happens to stored gold or silver holdings in the event of a death? The stability of gold and silver investments allows owners to make long-term plans. Thus physical bars and coins are often stored in secure individual custody in Switzerland. But what happens upon the death of a […]

The risks of buying raw gold and doré gold bars

Mining wagon on tracks in a mine

Buying raw gold? The experts advise caution Are gold doré bars a suitable investment? Many investors consider gold a safe investment which is why it is always in great demand in times of crisis. During an economic downturn it can serve as a hedge against inflation or as an asset diversification option to counterbalance more […]

The precious metal premium and what it means

Bull and bear on a sheet on which a price is plotted. As a symbol for the market price of precious metals.

The significance of the precious metal premium What is the difference between: spread, buying price and selling price? The basic price of precious metal coins or bars is determined by prevailing market rates, the so-called spot price. However, prices offered by specialist retailers are usually slightly higher than this market value. This is because of […]

Power outages: The potential risk to stored assets

Electricity pylons on a sunny day

Assets are secure even in the event of a power shortage What danger do blackouts and brownouts pose to stored assets? Nowadays, most systems, including many security installations, are connected to the power grid. But what if a power outage or power shortage occurs? What happens during a blackout or brownout? And would a power-grid […]

Are gold granules a practical investment product?

Gold bars surrounded by gold granulate

Are gold granules a suitable investment option? There is a lot to consider when buying, selling and storing gold pellets Gold is a valuable precious metal popular with investors and collectors, with coins and bars used for long-term asset building, as a hedge against inflation, or as part of a broader wealth diversification strategy. Granular […]

Safe deposit box facilities for unbanked customers

Find a safe deposit box for unbanked customers The advantages of bank-independent asset storage The safest way to store precious metals, jewelry, watches or cash is in a safe deposit box. Bank safe deposits are suitable for this because they offer better theft protection than a home safe and are usually available locally. However, in […]

Private precious metal storage instead of a bank

Various bars of precious metal

Bank-independent storage of precious metals and other valuables Nowadays, many investors store assets such as cash, stocks and precious metals in bank vaults. Thus relying upon the high-security resources of financial institutions rather than risky home-safe storage. Experts generally recommend spreading investable capital across different assets to minimize potential risk. So why not follow this […]

Gold: An introduction to various storage methods

Image of precious metal prices, gold is on an upward trend

A Beginner’s Guide to Gold Storage A Beginner’s Guide to Gold Storage Shortcommings of home safes Why to avoid collective custody Bank Independend safe deposit boxes Advantages of segregated storage Tax Considerations for Gold Investors Storing Gold in Switzerland vs. Other Countries Hamburger Toggle Menu Table of contents Summary of important facts about storing gold […]

A secure key safekeeping for safe deposit box keys

safe deposit box key which is inserted into the lock

External key depositories for safe deposit boxes How and where can you store your safe deposit box keys securely? Whether it’s precious metals, valuable jewellery or important documents, the safest place to keep such assets is in a safe deposit box with a specialist provider. Only the owner has keys to access the safe deposit. […]

Avoiding scams and potential precious-metal fraud

Various burning euro notes fall down

Avoid attempted precious-metal fraud Internet scams: What steps can investors take to protect themselves? Nowadays, it is commonplace for most of us to use the Internet to gather information and seek the best deals. The same applies to investors in the precious metals sector, yet it can often be quite difficult to distinguish genuine service […]

Swiss Mint: Switzerland’s official mint

A stack of Swiss coins and a Swiss flag.

What is the Swiss Mint? The Swiss Mint, often alternatively known as the ‘Swissmint’, is the Swiss Confederation’s official mint. Until 1998, this institution was formerly described as the Federal Mint. Based in the Swiss capital city of Bern, the Swiss Mint is an agency of the Swiss federal government and is thus part of […]

The Gold Sovereign: a piece of England’s history

Sovereign coins from different years lying on top of each other, with the Saint George and the Dragon design motif facing upwards

The Gold Sovereign: a piece of England’s history The Sovereign is a British gold coin which was first minted back in 1489. Over time, it has appeared in various sizes and different designs, but the most famous version is undoubtedly the modern British Sovereign gold coin first minted in 1817. Thanks to its high-quality gold […]

Gold securities: an individual custody alternative

Representation of an OrSuisse tradeable warehouse receipt

The alternative to individual custody of gold and silver Bank-independent storage of precious metals in Switzerland with OrSuisse negotiable warehouse receipts Precious metal storage arrangements should be carefully planned, because the market provides private and commercial investors with various storage options designed to meet different requirements. But is there any kind of storage which renders […]

Precious metal accounts: Gold & silver investors

Picture with various gold and silver bars

The precious metal account: A simple way to buy and sell gold or silver An investment solution for short and medium-term capital investment Those wishing to invest in precious metals without responsibility for storage can open a precious metals account – indeed various banks offer investors such facilities. When a sale transaction takes place, this […]

Encyclopedia: Bank failure& your safe deposit box

Wall Street sign with American flags in the background

Safe deposit boxes during bankruptcy proceedings Is your safe deposit box and its contents part of the bankruptcy estate? Let’s reveal the good news right away: No, a safe deposit box and its contents are not regarded as part of a bank’s own bankruptcy estate. So normally, such stored content may not be used by […]

Store gold and holiday in Altdorf, Switzerland

Altdorf is located between Lake Lucerne and the Alps

Altdorf – history and modernity in the birthplace of the Swiss nation Well worth a visit: The heartland of Uri and a safe haven for gold Picturesque Altdorf (450 metres above sea level) lies at the heart of the canton of Uri above Lake Lucerne, surrounded by magnificent Alpine peaks. Now Uri’s economic and social […]

Many flexible payment options at Swiss Gold Safe

View of the Untertorbrücke over the Aare in Bern

Your payment options at Swiss Gold Safe Flexible payment methods for safe deposit boxes and individual custody Swiss Gold Safe Ltd in Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein offers various options for paying the rental fees for your safe deposit box or individual custody storage. Best of all, you don’t necessarily need a bank account, […]

A safe deposit in Switzerland or Liechtenstein?

Flags of Liechtenstein and Switzerland

A safe deposit in Switzerland or Liechtenstein? Whether you plan to store jewellery, coins or other valuables, you’ll find a bank-independent safe deposit box in Switzerland or Liechtenstein very convenient. But which country should you choose? Generally speaking, there is not a vast difference between a bank-independent safe deposit box in Liechtenstein or one in […]

Switzerland/Liechtenstein: Secure gold in a crisis

Federal Palace in the Federal City of Bern with the Aare River

Crisis-proof gold storage at Swiss Gold Safe Switzerland and Liechtenstein remain economically strong even in times of crisis Global health crises and geopolitical incidents threaten national economies – yet they also challenge people and governments to create the best possible solutions. Like other nations, Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein have recently had to cope […]

Asset protection via a safe deposit in Switzerland

The Federal Palace in Bern as a sign of Switzerland's independence

Protection of assets in a safe deposit box or individual custody in Switzerland How to alleviate fears of burden equalization and special surtaxes Despite rapid government intervention, the recurrence of international banking crises like the one in 2008 remains a threat. Many people, especially the wealthy, are aware that surtaxes can be levied in such […]

How much security do safe deposit boxes offer?

modern safe deposit boy is opened with a key

Safe deposit boxes and physical security Today’s bank safe deposit boxes often no longer meet contemporary security standards Today, many people maintain a safe deposit box to secure valuables and important documents – or perhaps to store valuable jewellery, precious metals or cash. These boxes typically contain assets worth six or seven-digit sums – often […]

Goldvreneli: Switzerland’s most famous gold coin

A 20-franc gold vreneli

The Goldvreneli: Switzerland’s most important gold coin has a long history The 20-franc piece, better known as the “Goldvreneli”, is probably Switzerland’s most common gold coin. Similar 20-franc gold coins were minted from as early as 1883, but the Vreneli itself did not appear until the spring of 1895. Between 1897 and 1949, the Swiss […]

Interesting facts about the Britannia bullion coin

A silver Britannia coin on a wooden table.

Britannia bullion coins: a niche product becomes an investment classic The Britannia coin is one of world’s best known and most-coveted bullion coins. Since its introduction by the British Royal Mint in 1987, the Britannia coin has enjoyed great popularity among investors and collectors alike. Offering a classic design, high-level purity and official legal-tender status, […]

Anti-inflation strategy: CHF in a safe deposit box

Various Swiss banknotes lying in a jumble.

Swiss francs as a hedge against inflation Store cash in a bank-independent safe deposit box in Switzerland Geopolitical events are universally regarded as drivers of inflation, with double-digit rates no longer uncommon in many countries. Thus, high-net-worth individuals are seeking alternative asset-protection solutions. Low inflation and a solid Swiss franc put Switzerland in a pole […]

Encyclopedia – Automated safe deposit systems

Picture of a classic safe deposit box

Fully automated safe deposit box systems What are fully automated safe deposit box systems? In the past, safe deposit box systems were generally mechanised with facility access usually achieved via some kind of key combination lock. In this context, a staff presence was absolutely necessary in order to allow customers proper access to the contents […]

Better alternatives to a bank safe deposit box

Opened safe deposit box in a vault

Alternatives to a bank safe deposit box What are the alternatives to a bank safe deposit box? If you need to store precious metals, important documents or expensive artworks securely, you will often opt for a bank safe deposit box. However, this may not always be the best storage solution for such items – especially […]

Realise asset protection with gold safely

Gold coins and gold bars

Asset protection with gold – importance and benefits Asset preservation is a high priority amid talk of inflation and recession. At such moments, investors naturally turn to sought-after assets like real estate, shares or commodities, but precious metals are also recommended for this purpose. Especially gold, whose high value-density offers many advantages over other asset […]

Crypto Assets

Various cryptocurrencies represented as coins

What are crypto assets and how are they used? Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have attracted investors in recent years, sometimes causing rapid price increases. An experimental idea floated 2008 has now evolved into a new asset class. Alongside shares, precious metals and funds, digital money has become an alternative investment product. And there have already […]

Secure alternative gold custodian & silver custodian services

Swiss gold bars

Secure alternative gold custodian & silver custodian services Secure alternative gold custodian & silver custodian services Custodial institutions are an essential part of the world of financial assets management. Their primary role is to ensure the safekeeping of precious metals, and a whole range of other valuables and securities, in order to minimise the risk […]

Selection criteria for safe deposits & providers

Safe deposit box with various contents

Guide for choosing a safe deposit box A Beginner’s Guide to Gold Storage Shortcommings of home safes Why to avoid collective custody Bank Independend safe deposit boxes Advantages of segregated storage Tax Considerations for Gold Investors Storing Gold in Switzerland vs. Other Countries Hamburger Toggle Menu Table of contents Criteria for safe deposit boxes, and […]

Krugerrand, the oldest bullion coin in the world

Image of a gold Krugerrand

Krugerrand – the classic bullion coin When undecided investors ask an expert which coinage they should invest in, they usually get the same answer: “Krugerrands”. And no wonder, because these remain the classics among precious metals. This investment gold coin with its springbok motif enjoys an international reputation and is accepted almost everywhere. Furthermore, it […]

Vienna Philharmonic a sophisticated bullion coin

Image of the front and back of a Vienna Philharmonic gold coin

Vienna Philharmonic – Europe’s first bullion coin The widely circulated Vienna Philharmonic gold coin, has enriched the investment market since 1989. The first gold bullion issue in Europe, it is easily recognised by its high fineness and precision images. This investment product from the Austrian Mint is valued by investors worldwide, partly due to its […]

Maple Leaf, a bullion investment coin from Canada

Image of a Maple Leaf with laser engraving

Maple Leaf – the first 999.9 gold bullion coin The long-established Maple Leaf gold coin is one of the most sought-after investment products with worldwide acceptance. Its maple leaf motif is Canada’s national symbol and gives the coin its name. This high-circulation precious metal coin has been minted since 1979. From 1983, its fineness rating […]

Products and services for trusts and foundations

Puzzle with key

A precious metal storage solution for foundations and trusts Trusts and foundations have one thing in common: they manage assets for beneficiaries. Various assets are held in trust, often resulting from gifts or inheritances. Such benefits frequently include precious metals, especially valuable gold bequests that demand appropriate safekeeping. Independent, specialist storage companies in Switzerland and […]

Fully anonymous safe deposit box facilities?

Magnifying glass in front of the word ANONYM

Are there still completely anonymous safe deposit boxes? Especially during a crisis, many people invest capital in precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum or palladium. These ‘crisis currencies’ offering stable values represent a proven hedge against inflation. However, these and other similar assets still require a safe storage solution, and rental safes are recommended […]

Insurance and proof of loss or damage to safe deposit boxes

Opened safe deposit box with stored gold

Insuring the contents of a safe deposit box and providing evidence of loss Jewellery, artwork, precious metals – all valuables require proper protection, and especially in the event of an insurance claim. Safe deposit boxes offered by banks or private storage companies are an ideal option. Beyond general conditions, the insurance cover available should also […]

Platinum bars, the alternative investment

1 gramm platinum bar

Platinum bars as an alternative to gold and silver Platinum bars are one of the exotics of the physical precious metal investment market. Because platinum reserves around the world are significantly lower than stocks of either gold or silver, the market is tight and price fluctuations can be quite significant. Nevertheless, for investors, platinum bars […]

Rare earths as an investment product

The lanthanides are listed in the periodic table of elements on the second row up from the bottom.

Rare earths – an investment product? A set of 17 elements are described as rare earth metals, and thus appear in the periodic table of elements. However, this term is misleading, because many of these pure substances are found more frequently in the earth’s crust than gold or platinum, for example. These raw materials are […]

Investment silver: tax guidance on Swiss imports

Image with several Swiss silver bars

Importing silver into Switzerland – what must be considered (including taxation) Rather like gold, silver investment products – both coins and silver bars – are becoming increasingly popular. However, unlike the yellow precious metal, the purchase of silver is subject to VAT. Furthermore, investors are required to pay import duties if they wish to import […]

Safe deposit box without bank

An image of safe deposit boxes

Rent a safe deposit box without a bank – how does that work? Gold and silver precious metals represent considerable value and often serve as asset protection. But where should your bars and coins be kept for safe storage? Safe deposit facilities at financial institutions or precious metal dealers are one option. But non-bank safe […]

Precious metal refineries

Image of a gold nugget from Venezuela against a white background

Precious metal refineries are the link between the mines and the finished product Precious metals have been processed for thousands of years. Gold and silver served as a medium of exchange well into the 20th century, but now the focus is on jewellery, industrial and investment products. The finished product involves a complex process carried […]

FAQs – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions We provide you with the answers to your questions about the storage and purchase options for various precious metals. Content General Questions Where can I rent a safe deposit box in Switzerland? In Switzerland, you can rent a safe deposit box located in a traditional bank vault or […]

Bank safe deposit box tenants to be registered in Liechtenstein

Magnifying glass and euro notes as a symbol of declining discretion

Bank safe deposit box tenants to be registered in Liechtenstein Note: This article does not claim to be comprehensive, nor does it represent explicitly legal advice. The content is intended to be read as guidance only. For authoritative, legally binding information, we recommend you contact a lawyer of your choice. Investors who secure assets in […]

Platinum coins – the exotics of collector coinage

Reverse side of a three-ruble platinum coin

Platinum coins – the exotics of collector coinage The history of platinum coins For a long time, platinum was not even considered to be a precious metal, and certainly not a substance which was at all suitable for coin production. The Spaniards, for example, viewed platinum just as a by-product of the gold production process […]

Dealer precious metal deposits – storage options

Different gold and silver bars stacked beside each other

Dealer precious metal deposits – storage options It’s rarely possible to store precious metals at home – especially where values exceed a few thousand francs. In addition to a bank safe deposit box, investors can choose to open a precious metal depository or deposit with a broker, whereby physical gold and silver is stored directly […]

Gold deposits with a broker or allocated storage?

A variety of 250g gold bars and Vienna Philharmonic gold coins

Gold deposits with a broker or allocated storage? Investors holding precious metals worth several thousand francs should consider secure storage arrangements beyond what home safes provide. Meanwhile, some precious metal traders elsewhere are offering customers ‘gold deposit’ or ‘gold depository’ facilities enabling investors to buy physical gold direct from such providers, who then store it […]

The Latin Monetary Union

Image of a Napoleon d'Or from 1864

The Latin Monetary Union At the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, Europe was primarily being shaped by French ideas. Thus Napoleon Bonaparte’s influence spread far and wide, especially in currency matters. Italy’s monetary system evolved as one consequence of Napoleon’s successful Italian campaign, and the Helvetic Republic, convened in Switzerland by that same […]

VAT-free Silver storage in a bonded warehouse

Silver bars and silver granules

VAT-free Silver storage in a bonded warehouse Unlike gold investments, purchasing bars or coins made from white precious metals is generally subject to VAT, making silver, platinum or palladium bullion comparatively more expensive. The reason for this disparity is that gold is legally classified as an investment, whereas white metals are usually regarded as industrial […]

The Gold Standard: A Comprehensive Analysis

Hoard of Roman gold coins

The Gold Standard: A Comprehensive Analysis Gold and silver coins have always circulated among merchants and traders, who recognised their value and used them for monetary purposes. And with the dawn of modern times, embryo city states such as Venice, Genoa and Florence also began using paper banknotes with greater frequency. At this time, the […]

Silver granules have limited investment appeal

Image of silver granules

Silver granules have limited investment appeal Why private investors should avoid silver granules With investing in precious metals becoming a more favoured option, some investors may feel silver granules look like a promising investment. However, while the savings compared to the purchase of investment bars are touted as an advantage, a closer look reveals a […]

Buying and storing gold offshore

Federal Palace of Switzerland as symbol for swiss democracy

Buying and storing gold offshore Considering an investment in gold? There are, of course, many positive benefits, but any successful investment needs careful planning. Furthermore, investing in precious metals often means purchasing a physical commodity. So let’s summarise the process involved when you buy gold and take a look at what every wise investor needs […]

Why choose a Swiss Alpine Vault?

Picture of a typical Swiss mountain fortress with visible embrasures.

Why choose a Swiss Alpine Vault? Switzerland’s Alpine regions encompass lower lying grassland hills, high snow-capped mountains, and everything in between. And Alpine terrain can be forbidding, as anyone who has visited an Alpine vault will surely know. But the people who live in this region have strong cultural roots, a deep respect for tradition, […]

Stock-to-flow ratio

View over Lake Lucerne with Flüelen and Altdorf

Stock-to-flow ratio In our day and age of fiat money, the volatility of all kinds of assets is particularly high. Newly created fiat liquidity is continuously pushing the value of financial assets in all directions. The ups and downs of exchange rates invariably lead to stronger demands for “fair” valuations from all market participants. And […]

Switzerland: A safe country for storing private gold

Several 20 Franc Vreneli gold coins side by side with one another

Switzerland: A safe country for storing private gold Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world – especially as regards financial matters. This is a situation which has evolved over a period of time. Again and again, people have recommended Switzerland as a financial safe haven – and have always been proven right. […]

The origins of the gold-silver ratio

An American eagle in gold and silver in front of silver bars

The origins of the gold-silver ratio Gold and silver are both considered commodity money. Throughout history their use within monetary systems has been a prominent and enduring feature of many different cultures. And even though they have somewhat faded into the background since the dawn of the age of paper money, both gold and silver […]

Keeping Your Bitcoin and Crypto Assets Safe

Various cryptocurrencies represented as gold coins

Keeping Your Bitcoin and Crypto Assets Safe Bitcoin is just beginning to establish itself as a new means of storing wealth. Some now trade this crypto asset as if it were digital gold and in this context perhaps already view bitcoin as a supplementary wealth-building option, or maybe even consider it an alternative to physical […]

Comex: The primary gold futures trading platform

View over Vitznau over Lake Lucerne

Comex: The primary gold futures trading platform Comex stands for Commodities Exchange and is now the largest trading centre for futures trading in the commodities sector. Operating as a Commodity Exchange, Comex used to trade alongside the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) before these two exchanges were merged into one company. Since 2008, Comex has […]

Safe Deposit Box or Allocated and Segregated Storage

An image of locked safe deposit boxes

Safe Deposit Box or Allocated and Segregated Storage Comparing can clarify the question of whether a safe deposit box or allocated and segregated storage is more suitable for jewellery, precious metals or securities. The decisive factor is what is to be stored because both types of storage offer many advantages for their respective needs. This […]

Offshore Private Vaults – A Good Way to Store Precious Metals Abroad

Various bars of precious metal

Offshore Private Vaults – A Good Way to Store Precious Metals Abroad If you want to store gold and silver abroad, then doing so is probably a good deal easier than you might think. What’s more, renting an offshore private vault overseas offers a number of advantages that you will not necessarily obtain in the […]

Silver Coins – Ideal for Investors and Collectors

The front and back of a five Franc coin made of silver dating from 1965

Silver Coins – Ideal for Investors and Collectors This white precious metal is much more than the little brother of gold. Silver coins are a popular form of investment and delight numismatists with their infinite variety. Silver coins are inextricably linked to human history. As early as the sixth century BC, ancient Greeks began to […]

Gold bars – a long-term, crisis-proof investment

Close up of two 100g gold bars from Switzerland

Gold bars – a long-term, crisis-proof investment The standard format has a lot to offer both beginners and experienced investors, and has many advantages over coins Opting for a gold investment means investors are choosing a stable asset which offers a host of opportunities. Just like the classic gold coins, gold bars especially are a […]

Silver bars: a popular, flexible investment format

Three silver bars of different weights

Silver bars: a popular, flexible investment format Many different denominations make silver bars affordable for every budget. They offer many advantages over silver coins and gold products. Besides gold bars, silver bars are another popular form of investment, and have the distinct advantage of a somewhat lower purchase price for each individual unit. Experts too […]

The Benefits of Individual Over Collective Custody

Panoramic shot of the Rhine Falls with Laufen Castle and Wörth Castle

The Benefits of Individual Over Collective Custody Investors have a choice to make between a share in a general precious metal deposit or a fully owned solution Investors who have invested part of their asset wealth into precious metals – such as gold, silver, platinum or palladium – will sooner or later face the question […]

Gold Coins – A Top Collectible and Investment Form

Several 20 Franc Vreneli gold coins side by side with one another

Gold Coins – A Top Collectible and Investment Form Gold coins have many advantages over gold bars and they have proven themselves as an investment form suited to times of crisis Gold coins have been minted as a form of currency since the 6th century BC. They were considered to be a versatile means of […]

Safes for the Home Are Often Inadequate or Dear

View of the Untertorbrücke over the Aare in Bern

Safes for the Home Are Often Inadequate or Dear In order for home safes to be secure, they need to be certified. Most of the time, therefore, storing valuables in private high-security vaults is more cost-effective Anyone who owns valuable jewellery, important documents or investment gold should be careful to store these valuables as securely […]

Gold as an important investment for UHNWI

View from the lookout point on the Gotthard Pass

Gold as an important investment for UHNWI More than 4,700 ultra-high net-worth individuals live in Switzerland In excess of 20 million millionaires were alive around the world in 2018. This record is published in the most recent Wealth Report of 2019. However, it is neither the USA nor Asia that leads the table of the […]

Off-Bank Safe Deposit Boxes: Is There a Duty of Disclosure?

Opening a safe deposit box with a key

Off-Bank Safe Deposit Boxes: Is There a Duty of Disclosure? Note: This article makes no claim to be comprehensive and it does not constitute any explicit legal advice. As such, it is for guidance only. For legally binding information, we recommend that you contact a lawyer of your choice and the information that is available […]

Renting a Safe Deposit Box in Switzerland is Easy

View over the Swiss Alps

Renting a Safe Deposit Box in Switzerland is Easy Take five simple steps to a rent an off-bank safe deposit box in Switzerland As a privately owned company, Swiss Gold Safe Ltd offers customers from Switzerland as well as other countries highly secure and discreet safe deposit boxes that remain completely independent of banking establishments. […]

Saint-Gotthard: Ideal for high-security vaults

Panorama of the Gotthard high mountain pass with St. Gotthard Hospice viewed from the east

Saint-Gotthard: Ideal for high-security vaults Why store precious metals and other valuables in bank-independent facilities in the Gotthard area? What distinguishes Switzerland as a storage location? And what role does William Tell play in all this? “But when your course of action is resolved, then call on Tell; you shall not find him fail!” This […]

Security and Privacy With Safe Deposit Boxes

Magnifying glass in front of the word ANONYM

Security and Privacy With Safe Deposit Boxes You should be warned that tax authorities can gain access to banks’ safe deposit boxes. However, privately owned facilities are to be considered an alternative while strictly respecting ownership. For investors of physical precious metals or other sorts of valuables – such as jewellery, works of art, securities […]

Taxes On the Import of Gold Into Switzerland

Various bars of precious metal

Taxes on the import of gold into Switzerland Table of Contents The import of gold into Switzerland is usually tax-free People who wish to import bank gold into Switzerland don’t usually have to pay import taxes. Provided the gold meets the current Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) requirements, it can be imported […]

Renting a bank safe deposit box in Switzerland

Image of the Limmat in Zurich with Bauschänzli, cathedral and other sights.

Swiss bank safe deposits – the alternative options A summary of the advantages of bank-independent safe deposit boxes: A bank safe deposit box in Switzerland represents a practical solution for storing valuables. However, this option is not available to all customers. In addition, the available security measures may be outdated and insurance benefits can be […]

Outside of the EU: Silver Storage in Switzerland

View from Montreux over Lake Geneva

Outside of the EU: Silver Storage in Switzerland As a non-EU country Switzerland offers foreigners attractive options for storing white metals For investors who want to invest in white precious metals such as silver, palladium or platinum, the question of the best possible storage method place quickly arises. For security reasons, storing in a home […]

Emergency law and expropriation: a comparison between Switzerland and Liechtenstein

View from the Brienzer Rothorn to the Swiss Alps with Lake Brienz and Interlaken.

Emergency law and expropriation: a comparison between Switzerland and Liechtenstein Note: This article makes no claim to be fully complete and, explicitly, it does not constitute legal advice. In short, it is for the purposes of guidance only. For authoritative information, we recommend that you contact a lawyer of your own choice. Many investors diversify […]

Gold Outside the EU

Flags of Liechtenstein and Switzerland – safe third countries

Storing gold outside of the EU Safe deposit boxes outside of the EU: Non-member countries offer certain advantages when investing in precious metals As long as there were goods to trade in, gold was used as a means of exchange and payment. Its use in this regard goes back to ancient times. The matt, glossy […]

The cost of a safe deposit box in Liechtenstein

An image of locked safe deposit boxes

The cost of a safe deposit box in Liechtenstein Bank-independent storage of precious metal, jewellery, all at affordable prices An alternative to the classic bank locker or home safe is the safe deposit boxes located in a private high-security vault located in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Swiss Gold Safe (Liechtenstein) offers you the ability to […]

Your Swiss safe deposit box: costs and prices

An image of safe deposit boxes

Your Swiss safe deposit box: costs and prices Good value, bank-independent storage of precious metals, cash and much more Would you like to store your precious metals, cash or other valuables safely and discreetly? If so, then we would like to recommend our private high-security systems in Switzerland. Swiss Gold Safe offers you safe deposit […]

Gold and Switzerland

Image of a tunnel in the Sessa mine complete with mining tools.

Gold and Switzerland Swiss Gold When it comes to the key words of gold and Switzerland, few people think of international precious metal trade or even gold mines. However, gold has a long and varied history in Switzerland. Natural gold deposits Little is known about the existence of natural gold deposits in the country. The […]

Precious Metals

View from the Brienzer Rothorn to the Swiss Alps with Lake Brienz and Interlaken.

Precious Metals So-called noble, or precious, metals owe their special name to their exceptional levels of corrosion resistance. Under normal conditions, precious metals are very stable and hardly oxidise at all. Neither water nor exposure to air can harm precious metals. Since these metals are chemically stable, they are difficult to form chemical reactions with. […]

Physical Gold

Gold coins and gold bars on a black background

Physical Gold for Newcomers: What You Need to Know A summary of the most important information about physical gold: Gold is a scarce, valuable, and virtually indestructible precious metal that has served as a store of value for thousands of years. In this context, physical gold products such as gold bars or gold coins are […]

Family offices and HNWIs: gold/silver/cash storage

Panorama in Lucerne over the River Reuss with the Chapel Bridge

Family offices and HNWIs: gold/silver/cash storage A discreet and comprehensive service for high net worth individuals (HNWIs) Swiss Gold Safe offers bank-independent storage for precious metals, such as gold, silver or palladium as well as cash and other securities for family offices or wealthy private customers. We are an owner-managed firm that has existed since […]

Duty-Free Warehouse: Storage in Embrach, Zurich

Building Z of the Embraport duty-free warehouse in Embrach, one of several bonded warehouses in Switzerland.

Duty-Free Warehouse: Storage in Embrach, Zurich Table of contents Duty-free storage of valuables in Switzerland offers many advantages The duty-free warehouses of Switzerland are ideal for the storage of valuable precious metals or other high-priced goods. Valuables such as precious metals, works of art, valuables, antiques or spirits can be accommodated for any length of […]

Safe and independent gold storage in Liechtenstein

Various bars of precious metal

Safe and independent gold storage in Liechtenstein Discreet storage of precious metals and other valuables in the Principality of Liechtenstein If you would like to store gold and other precious metals such as silver, platinum or palladium with full discretion, then safe deposit boxes in the Principality of Liechtenstein are highly recommended. Swiss Gold Safe […]

LBMA – The London Bullion Market Association and Market

Panoramic shot of the Rhine Falls with Laufen Castle and Wörth Castle

LBMA – The London Bullion Market Association and Market The London Bullion Market The London Bullion Market (a marketplace for precious metals and bullion) is an over-the-counter trading venue where the international price of silver and gold is set. Here, plenty of trading in gold and silver, as well as other important raw materials, takes […]

Store cash – protect private assets and avoid negative interest rates

Swiss banknotes in disarray.

Store cash – protect private assets and avoid negative interest rates This article informs you about cash deposits made as a private customer. If you represent a company, then switch to the article about cash storage as an institutional client. Avoid deposit and penalty interest fees with cash storage Since the first means of cash […]

Store cash – protect company capital, avoid negative interest rates

Table with bank note sizes and volumes for US Dollar, Euro and Swiss Franc

Store cash – protect company capital, avoid negative interest rates This article gives you information about storing cash as an institutional customer. Switch to this article if you are a private individual: Cash storage as a private customer. Storing cash avoids penalty interest and deposit fee The days when banks used to pay their customers […]

What are precious metal ETFs?

Price display for precious metals

What are precious metal ETFs? Precious metal ETFs Anyone who wants to invest in gold and silver comes across so-called precious metal ETFs sooner or later. Gold ETFs and silver ETFs are among the mutual funds that track the price of these precious metals. In Switzerland, many banks offer such funds. ETF stands for Exchange […]

Buying Silver Without VAT

Three silver bars

Buying Silver Without VAT Buying silver without sales tax – or VAT – is easy for investors by using bonded warehouses. This is because anyone who wants to invest in silver, platinum or palladium must take the statutory sales tax into account when buying. Purchasing silver without sales tax means that investors can buy more […]

Buy Gold As a Form of Investment

Buying Gold As a Form of Investment What should you pay attention to when buying gold? Advantages of gold for investment. Possibilities for both storage and resale. Ever since the end of the prehistoric era, gold has been cherished as an investment because even small amounts can be very valuable, especially if they have a […]

Information about platinum

View over the Swiss Alps

Information about platinum Platinum is a heavy, ductile noble, grey-white precious metal that can be forged. It is also very resistant to corrosion. Pure metallic platinum, also known as platinum soap, is hardly mined at all at the moment, except perhaps in South Africa which remains the world’s largest platinum producer. 80 per cent of […]

Information about silver

A Vienna Philharmonic silver coin

Information about silver Occurrence, extraction and professional storage of silver coins and silver bars In antiquity and during the Middle Ages, silver was mainly used to produce legal tender (silver money) – so-called ‘bullion’ coinage which had to contain precious metal in proportion to its value. And this shiny white precious metal even appears in […]

Information about gold

Information about gold Table of contents Gold and its prevalence Gold is a metal, or more precisely a precious metal, and is also one of the elements chemistry describes as a “coinage metal”. The average proportion of this yellow precious metal found in the earth’s crust is four grams per 1,000 tons of rock [1]. […]

OZL – Open Bonded Warehouse in Liechtenstein and Switzerland

Panoramic shot of the Rhine Falls with Laufen Castle and Wörth Castle

OZL – Open Bonded Warehouse in Liechtenstein and Switzerland What is the difference between a Bonded Warehouse (ZFL) and an Open Bonded Warehouse (OZL)? In Switzerland, there is a distinction that is made between so-called open bonded warehouses (OZL / OCW) and duty-free warehouses (ZFL).In a duty-free warehouse (ZFL) the inventories and stock movements are […]

Transfer to Swiss Gold Safe Ltd.

View over an alpine panorama in Verbier, Switzerland.

Transfer to Swiss Gold Safe Ltd. Why transfer to Swiss Gold Safe Ltd.? Compare your current storage fees to our offer. Price list Embraport and Lufingen – segregated storage (with registration of bar numbers) Through our partner/broker Echtgeld Ltd. buying and selling of precious metals is possible at any time (also in the bonded warehouse). […]