When it comes to investing in gold and silver, there are two main options: buying physical metal or investing in paper promissory notes that track the value of gold or silver. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand them before making your decision.
1. Physical gold and silver: Holding physical metal is a tangible asset that you can see, touch, and store. If you hold physical gold or silver, you own it outright and can sell it at any time. Physical metal is usually considered a more stable and reliable investment, as it is not subject to counterparty risk, meaning it does not rely on a third-party to fulfill a promise. Additionally, if you believe that there will be a financial or economic crisis, physical gold and silver can provide you with a safe haven against inflation and uncertainty.
However, holding physical gold and silver does have its drawbacks. It requires storage space that may not be easily accessible, and it can be difficult to transport, especially if you have purchased large quantities. There are also additional costs such as insurance, shipping, and security.
2. Paper promissory notes: These investment vehicles are designed to track the value of gold or silver, and they allow you to invest in precious metals without having to physically hold the metal. These notes are issued by financial institutions, and they are backed by the bank's guarantees.
One of the main advantages of owning promissory notes is the convenience involved. Owning a paper promissory note is much easier and more convenient than holding physical gold or silver. Additionally, these notes offer greater liquidity than physical metals, as they can be bought and sold much more quickly without the additional costs associated with shipping, storing and insuring physical gold and silver.
That said, paper promissory notes do carry risk. If the issuing bank faces financial difficulties or becomes insolvent, you may lose your investment. There is also the risk associated with market volatility, which could cause the value of the note to decline.
In conclusion, both physical gold and silver and paper promissory notes have their pros and cons. If you favour a long-term investment with minimal counterparty risk, you may lean towards holding physical gold or silver. On the other hand, if you prefer a more accessible and diversified investment, a paper promissory note may be more suitable.