Separate market value from the acquisition premium
Ask for the market reference, timing, currency, fine metal content and product premium. Keep any applicable charges itemised. Compare equivalent products and quantities rather than treating two different formats as interchangeable simply because both contain the same metal.
Read custody terms as carefully as pricing
Ask whether your specific holdings are identified, how ownership is recorded, how access or withdrawal works and what evidence you receive. Confirm charges, insurance scope, exclusions and any liability limits with the provider. Do not assume a storage arrangement automatically includes adequate insurance.
Plan for the physical form
Record weight, dimensions, packaging and the effort required to inspect or transport the holding. Compare storage and handling quotations for the actual product and quantity. Gold and silver can have different practical requirements; use supplier quotations instead of assuming one custody percentage fits both.
Obtain a realistic resale quote
Ask which products the prospective buyer accepts, how price is determined, how long a quote is valid, and whether testing or refining deductions apply. Record settlement timing and the documentation needed. An indicative buyback policy is not a guaranteed future price or a commitment to every product.
Use an all-in ownership worksheet
| Stage | Record |
|---|---|
| Purchase | Fine content, reference price, premium and applicable charges |
| Holding | Custody, insurance and inventory administration |
| Movement | Transport, security and any required documentation |
| Verification | Inspection or assay quotation and responsibility |
| Exit | Quoted spread, condition deductions and settlement timing |
Compare scenarios at different holding periods and sale prices. Do not publish a universal tax or customs assumption: obtain advice on the product, transaction and jurisdiction. Verification records can help future assessment, but they do not eliminate a buyer’s independent checks.
Compare written quotations on the same basis
Ask each provider to quote for the same quantity, product form, storage period and withdrawal assumptions. Separate fixed minimums from percentage charges and identify what insurance or administration is included. Request an example of the total cost if you withdraw early or sell only part of the holding. A low headline custody rate can be difficult to compare if other activities are priced separately.
Think about partial exits
Consider whether the product sizes you choose support the way you may later need cash. Selling one large bar and selling several smaller units can involve different premiums, handling and verification arrangements. Ask for actual acquisition and resale quotations for both formats rather than assuming a smaller unit is always better. The right comparison depends on your purpose, expected holding period and realistic exit route.
Sources and scope
Source pages checked on 6 October 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before acting. Numbered references refer to these sources.
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