In terms of precious metals, this site is mainly focused on their use in and as coined money. However, a few words should be
said regarding investing and trading. I look at gold and silver primarily as a long term investment. They are something to
have around in case you need it. From that standpoint, I do not obsess with what the precious metals market is doing; by
themselves, gold and silver have had value for thousands of years as money and as a store of wealth. In times of crisis
they can be relied on as a medium of exchange since they are not dependant on a political situation for backing as is the
case with money like the Dollar, Pound, etc.
For those of you who chose to invest in that manner, be sure to take physical possession of the metal. If something happens,
all the bars of gold won't do you any good if they are locked in some firms vaults and all you have is a receipt! Physical
Posession can be in the form of bars or gold coin (see image below: 1oz Krugerrand Gold Coin). For smaller
amounts, gold in the form of coins is very convenient. For large amounts, consider bars which are available in various
weights either by metric (kilograms) or troy (pounds)
Another way to play it (in addition to keeping some aside for long term) is to do weekly trading. By weekly, I don't mean
to imply any set schedule but refer to short term playing of the market. There are a few prices to be aware of. One of
the most important is the spot price which changes throughout the day based upon the markets which react to world
political and economic events. However, you rarely can buy gold or silver at the sport price. Afterall, the bullion
traders would not be able to make any profit on the transaction if you could, and face it, that is what they are in the
game for.So, there are two more prices that you have to consider. One is the bid price, the other is the ask price. These
are based upon the spot price and vary from dealer to dealer since each has his own rates set up. These prices are what
the dealer will pay for the metal and the amount that he will sell it for.
Here's where the trading comes to play.
Lately, gold and silver have fluctuated quite a bit in short periods of time. Using this knowledge, you can "beat the spread"
Let's look at an example. Let's assume the spot price for gold is $610 Often the difference between buy and sell prices
is only a few dollars. At $610 an ounce, you may be able to buy an ounce of gold for $611.50 At the same spot price,
you may be able to sell it at $607.50 If you buy at $610 (paying $611.50) the price of gold only has to go up $4 before you
can sell for profit providing that you are not converting to physical metal on each trade. Many dealers have pool acounts
set up where you can do exactly this. You never see the physical metal but still can trade it back and forth. The two charts
above show the spot prices of gold and silver over the last 24 hours.
Before getting into the trading game, though, be sure to become familiar with the movement of the metals. Study the charts,
look at trends, keep an eye on the news. Also study the firm that you will be dealing with. Familiarize yourself with all
the terms and how they operate. Have questions? Call them or email them, most likely they will be quick to respond. There's
an old adage that, although it is painfully obvious, bears repeating. Buy low, sell high.
Gold and Silver Investing
First, as way of a disclaimer, I am not a licensed broker, investor, advisor, etc. The purpose of this page is
simply to explain a few ways of investing in precious metals. As with all investments, you can gain and you can lose, including
your principle. I strongly advise seeking a licensed professional for additional advice if you plan on investing any money.
Gold Spot Price
Silver Spot Price