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Retirement & Precious Metals Investing Guide

Let our team of experts help you learn the ins and outs of gold, silver, retirement planning and more.....

THE BEST GOLD IRA COMPANIES

Our team has reviewed and ranked the best IRA companies in the Precious Metals Industry. Find your perfect fit...

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In the world of precious metals, finding a reputable dealer to buy from is essential. Money Metals Exchange is one such dealer that has become a popular choice for many investors.

This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know about the company, its products, and its services, providing insights into whether it's the right choice for your precious metals investments.

Before we dive in, if you're looking to invest in precious metals, we've narrowed down our list to the top 7 companies for 2023 - see if Money Metals Exchange made our list:

Top 7 Gold IRA Companies for 2023

Goldco is our Top-Rated company for the year - learn more and get a free Gold investing kit below:

money metals exchange logo in gold, black and white

What is Money Metals Exchange?

Money Metals Exchange (MME) is a well-established precious metals dealer founded in 2010.


Based in the United States, MME provides a wide range of precious metals products, including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and rhodium.


The company's goal is to make the process of buying, selling, and storing precious metals as straightforward and affordable as possible, offering competitive prices and exemplary customer service.

Is Money Metals Exchange Reputable?

MME has built a solid reputation in the precious metals industry. They have thousands of satisfied customers and have been featured in various media outlets, such as Forbes and Business Insider. Moreover, MME has an excellent rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and minimal complaints, which speaks to its credibility and reliability as a precious metals dealer.

Do They Sell Real Gold and Silver?

Yes, Money Metals Exchange sells real gold and silver, along with other precious metals. MME sources its products from reputable mints, refineries, and distributors, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the metals. All products undergo rigorous testing and are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

MME Starter Kit

The MME Starter Kit is a beginner-friendly package designed to introduce new investors to the world of precious metals. The kit includes a mix of gold and silver coins and bars at a discounted price, allowing investors to start their precious metals portfolio at a lower cost. The kit offers an excellent opportunity for those looking to test the waters before making larger investments.

Gold

Money Metals Exchange offers a wide selection of gold products, including coins, bars, and rounds. Some popular gold options available at MME are:

  1. American Gold Eagle
  2. Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
  3. South African Gold Krugerrand
  4. Austrian Gold Philharmonic
  5. Gold bars from various mints

Silver

MME also provides a diverse range of silver products, including coins, bars, and rounds. Some popular silver options available at MME are:

  1. American Silver Eagle
  2. Canadian Silver Maple Leaf
  3. Austrian Silver Philharmonic
  4. Australian Silver Kangaroo
  5. Silver bars from various mints

Other Precious Metals They Sell

In addition to gold and silver, Money Metals Exchange offers other precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Some popular products in these categories include:

  1. Platinum: American Platinum Eagle, Canadian Platinum Maple Leaf, and platinum bars.
  2. Palladium: Canadian Palladium Maple Leaf, palladium bars, and rounds.
  3. Rhodium: Baird & Co. Rhodium bars.

MME Precious Metals IRA

free gold investing kit


Yes, Money Metals Exchange offers a Precious Metals IRA, allowing investors to include eligible gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in their retirement accounts. MME works with top IRA custodians and storage facilities to ensure a seamless experience for their customers.

How Does Their IRA Work?

A Precious Metals IRA with Money Metals Exchange functions similarly to a traditional IRA, but it allows for the inclusion of physical precious metals. Here's how the process works:

  1. Choose a custodian: Select an approved IRA custodian to administer your account. MME can help you find a suitable custodian if needed.
  2. Fund your IRA: Transfer funds from an existing IRA or 401(k), or contribute new funds to your Precious Metals IRA.3. Select your metals: Choose from MME's wide selection of IRA-approved precious metals, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
  3. Store your metals: MME works with various storage facilities, such as the Delaware Depository and Idaho Armored Vaults, to securely store your precious metals. Your custodian will handle the logistics of storage and any associated fees.
  4. Manage your investments: Monitor and adjust your precious metals holdings within your IRA as needed, with the help of your custodian and MME.

How to Set up a Gold IRA

Setting up a Gold IRA with Money Metals Exchange is a straightforward process:

  1. Choose a custodian: Select an approved IRA custodian to manage your Gold IRA. MME can assist you in finding the right custodian.
  2. Fund your IRA: Rollover funds from an existing IRA or 401(k), or contribute new funds to your Gold IRA.
  3. Purchase gold: Choose from MME's selection of IRA-approved gold products, such as coins and bars.
  4. Arrange storage: Your custodian will coordinate with a secure storage facility to store your gold investments.
  5. Manage your investments: Keep track of your gold holdings and make adjustments as needed.

Additional Services Offered by MME

Besides the core offerings, Money Metals Exchange also provides a variety of additional services to cater to the diverse needs of precious metals investors:

  1. Buyback Program: MME offers a buyback program, allowing customers to sell their precious metals back to the company at competitive rates. This service provides investors with an easy and convenient way to liquidate their assets when needed.
  2. Monthly Savings Plan: MME offers a monthly savings plan, enabling customers to invest in precious metals on a regular basis. The plan allows for automatic purchases of gold, silver, or other metals at predetermined intervals, helping investors build their portfolios over time without the hassle of monitoring the market constantly.
  3. Storage Services: For investors who prefer not to store their precious metals at home, MME offers storage services in partnership with secure storage facilities, such as the Delaware Depository and Idaho Armored Vaults. These facilities provide a high level of security and insurance coverage, ensuring that your investments are well-protected.
  4. Educational Resources: MME is dedicated to educating its customers about the benefits of investing in precious metals. The company provides a wealth of resources, including articles, podcasts, and videos, to help investors make informed decisions.
  5. Market Alerts and Price Notifications: MME offers market alerts and price notifications, helping customers stay informed about the latest market trends and price movements. This service can be particularly useful for investors looking to capitalize on market fluctuations and execute timely trades.

Should You Invest in Precious Metals?

Investing in precious metals can be an excellent way to diversify your investment portfolio, hedge against inflation, and protect your wealth during economic uncertainties. However, like any investment, precious metals come with their risks and should be carefully considered as part of a well-rounded investment strategy.

Money Metals Exchange BBB Rating and Complaints

Money Metals Exchange has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting its commitment to customer satisfaction and ethical business practices. Although some complaints have been filed against MME, the company has resolved most of them to the satisfaction of the customers. Overall, the positive reviews and low number of complaints indicate that MME is a reliable and trustworthy dealer.

Money Metals Exchange Lawsuit?

There is no evidence of any significant lawsuits against Money Metals Exchange. The company has maintained a strong reputation and has not been involved in any legal issues that would raise concerns for potential customers.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Reputable company with an excellent BBB rating
  • Wide selection of precious metals products
  • Competitive pricing and low premiums
  • Precious Metals IRA options available
  • Helpful customer service
Cons
  • Limited international shipping options
  • Storage fees for Precious Metals IRA may be higher compared to other providers
Conclusion

Money Metals Exchange is a reputable and reliable precious metals dealer that offers a wide range of products, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. With a strong BBB rating and thousands of satisfied customers, MME has proven itself as a trustworthy option for investors looking to buy, sell, or store precious metals.

While the company does have a few drawbacks, such as limited international shipping options and potentially higher storage fees for Precious Metals IRAs, these issues are relatively minor when considering the overall benefits of working with MME.

In conclusion, Money Metals Exchange is a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in precious metals. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, MME's diverse product offerings, professional service, and Precious Metals IRA options make it an attractive option for your precious metals investments.

Interested in buying physical gold and silver, or starting a precious metals IRA? We recommended starting your search with Goldco - get started with their free investing kit below:


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In the world of precious metals investment, it is essential to work with a reputable company that offers a wide range of products and services.

This comprehensive review of APMEX will explore the company's offerings, reputation, and customer satisfaction, providing readers with the information needed to make an informed decision about investing in precious metals.

The review is divided into sections, allowing readers to quickly locate the information they need.

Before we keep going, if you're looking to invest in precious metals, we've compiled our top-rated companies for 2023 - see if APMEX made the cut:

Best Gold Investing Companies for 2023

Get a free investing kit from the company that tops our list - Goldco:

gold investing kit
several gold bars from APMEX

What is APMEX?

APMEX, or the American Precious Metals Exchange, is a leading online precious metals dealer based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.


Established in 1999, APMEX has grown to become one of the largest and most respected companies in the industry.


The company offers a vast selection of gold, silver, and other precious metal products, as well as services such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) that incorporate precious metals.

Is APMEX a Reputable Company?

APMEX has earned a reputation for exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and an extensive selection of products. As a member of the American Numismatic Association, the Industry Council for Tangible Assets, and the Professional Numismatists Guild, APMEX adheres to strict industry standards and guidelines. Additionally, the company is a United States Mint Authorized Purchaser, ensuring the authenticity of their products.

APMEX Products and Services

Gold

APMEX offers a wide variety of gold products, including bullion, coins, bars, and numismatic items. Investors can choose from domestic and international mints, such as the United States Mint, the Royal Canadian Mint, and the Perth Mint. Gold products are available in various sizes and purities, accommodating investors with different budgets and preferences.

Silver

Silver products offered by APMEX include bullion, coins, bars, and numismatic items from various mints worldwide. Investors can select from popular silver coins, such as the American Silver Eagle, Canadian Silver Maple Leaf, and Austrian Silver Philharmonic. Additionally, APMEX offers silver bars and rounds in different sizes, shapes, and designs.

Other Metals

Besides gold and silver, APMEX also deals in other precious metals, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are available in various forms, such as bullion bars, coins, and rounds, allowing investors to diversify their precious metals portfolio further.

APMEX IRA

APMEX offers precious metals IRAs, allowing investors to add gold, silver, platinum, and palladium to their retirement savings. Precious metals IRAs provide an alternative to traditional retirement accounts, such as stocks and bonds, and may offer increased diversification and protection against inflation.

How to Set up a Precious Metals IRA with APMEX

free gold investing kit

Setting up a precious metals IRA with APMEX involves a few simple steps. 

First, investors must choose a custodian to administer the IRA. APMEX has a list of preferred custodians but also works with other custodians at the investor's request. Next, investors need to open and fund the IRA account, which can be done through a transfer, rollover, or new contribution.

Finally, investors can select the precious metals they wish to include in their IRA, with APMEX providing guidance on the appropriate products based on IRS guidelines.

Top Reasons to Consider Investing in Precious Metals

  1. Diversification: Precious metals can provide a hedge against stock market fluctuations and currency devaluation, reducing overall investment risk.
  2. Inflation Protection: Gold, silver, and other precious metals have historically maintained their purchasing power during periods of inflation.
  3. Tangible Assets: Unlike stocks and bonds, precious metals are tangible assets that can be held and stored, providing a sense of security for investors.4. Global Demand: Precious metals are used in various industries, such as technology, jewelry, and medicine, contributing to their steady global demand.
  1. Crisis Protection: Precious metals often perform well during economic or geopolitical crises, making them a valuable addition to an investment portfolio.

Top Reasons to Open a Precious Metals IRA

  1. Tax Advantages: A precious metals IRA offers tax-deferred growth, allowing investors to save for retirement more efficiently.
  2. Diversification: Including precious metals in an IRA can help diversify retirement savings and mitigate potential losses in traditional investments.
  3. Inflation Hedge: Precious metals have historically been effective in preserving wealth during periods of inflation, making them a valuable addition to a retirement portfolio.
  4. Long-term Potential: Precious metals have demonstrated long-term appreciation potential, which may be particularly beneficial for retirement planning.
  5. Portfolio Control: A self-directed precious metals IRA allows investors to have more control over their investment choices.

Does APMEX Sell Fake Gold?

APMEX takes extensive measures to ensure the authenticity of its precious metal products. As a United States Mint Authorized Purchaser, APMEX only deals in genuine gold, silver, and other precious metal items. Additionally, the company employs strict quality control measures and verification processes, such as X-ray fluorescence testing and weight and dimension checks, to guarantee the authenticity of the products it sells.

APMEX BBB Rating and Complaints

APMEX holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which reflects the company's commitment to customer satisfaction and transparency. While some complaints have been filed with the BBB, the majority have been resolved promptly and professionally, demonstrating APMEX's dedication to addressing customer concerns.

APMEX Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Extensive Product Selection: APMEX offers a wide range of precious metal products, including bullion, coins, bars, and numismatic items from various mints worldwide.
  • Competitive Pricing: APMEX provides transparent pricing and consistently competitive rates on its products.
  • Reputable Company: With a long history in the industry and an A+ BBB rating, APMEX is a trusted and reliable precious metals dealer.
  • IRA Services: APMEX offers precious metals IRAs, allowing investors to include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in their retirement savings.
  • Customer Service: APMEX is known for its exceptional customer service, with knowledgeable representatives available to assist investors.
Cons
  • Shipping Fees: While APMEX offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount, smaller orders may incur shipping fees, which can impact overall investment costs.
  • Handling Time: Some customers have reported longer-than-expected handling times on certain orders, although this appears to be a relatively rare occurrence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, APMEX's combination of industry experience, extensive product offerings, and commitment to customer satisfaction makes it a standout choice for precious metals investors. The company's strong reputation and adherence to industry standards provide investors with confidence in the authenticity of their purchases.

While there are some minor drawbacks, such as shipping fees on smaller orders and occasional handling delays, the overall benefits of working with APMEX far outweigh these concerns. By offering a range of precious metals products, competitive pricing, and the ability to incorporate precious metals into retirement savings through IRA services, APMEX caters to both novice and experienced investors.

As with any investment, it is essential to conduct thorough research and consult with a financial professional before making any decisions. However, for those looking to diversify their investment portfolio with precious metals, APMEX is a highly recommended option. With its comprehensive offerings and dedication to customer service, APMEX stands out as a leading choice in the precious metals industry.

If you're looking to invest in precious metals or start a gold IRA, Goldco is our current top-rated choice - learn more and get their free investing kit below:

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Are you ready to retire? 

The path to a fulfilling retirement is filled with many factors that need to be carefully considered. One of the most critical questions that needs to be addressed is: how much money will you need to retire? What are the expenses that you will incur during this phase of life? And how long can you expect to live?

It's essential to have answers to these questions to ensure that you are on the right track towards your retirement goals. To provide guidance, experts in the field of retirement planning have put forth varying estimates on how much you need to save for your retirement. These include saving close to $1 million, aiming for 80% to 90% of your pre-retirement income, or saving 12 times your annual earnings.

However, it's worth questioning whether these estimates hold true for everyone, so let's take a closer look at what's behind the numbers...

a retired couple leaning on a fence

Planning for Retirement Comfortably: What You Need to Know

Everyone's retirement plan is unique, so it's important to consider your financial goals and lifestyle when determining how much money you'll need to retire comfortably. If you're seeking a general estimate, there are resources available to help guide you. For example, a personal finance-style investment strategy can provide valuable information on how much you should aim to save by your desired retirement age.

One common rule of thumb suggests that retirees should aim for roughly 80% of their pre-retirement income (annual salary) to maintain a similar standard of living after retirement. However, keep in mind that investing always carries some degree of risk, and the 4% Rule withdrawal strategy may not be suitable for everyone. It's crucial to adjust your plan based on expected expenses, desired retirement type, and potential investment performance.

As you near retirement, a high-risk tolerance may no longer be appropriate, as market volatility could significantly impact your savings. Instead, consider utilizing annuities and Social Security Income to create a reliable monthly income stream that's guaranteed not to run out. By combining different retirement accounts, you can build a solid foundation for your financial future.

Ultimately, the key to retirement readiness is analyzing your ideal retirement age, including the possibility of early retirement. With careful planning and strategic investments, you can achieve the retirement lifestyle you've always dreamed of.

Determining Your Retirement Savings: Factors to Consider

Planning for your retirement can be a daunting task, but it is essential to secure a comfortable future for yourself. The amount you should save each year depends on various factors such as your desired retirement lifestyle, current savings, expected retirement age, and life expectancy.

To ensure a secure financial future, financial experts generally recommend saving a minimum of 15% of your gross income towards retirement each year. However, your personal circumstances may require you to save more or less. If you have a shorter time horizon to save or are starting late, you may need to save more than the recommended amount to catch up. Conversely, if you begin saving early, you may be able to save less than the recommended amount and still meet your retirement goals.

Calculating Your Retirement Income

When planning your retirement income, it is essential to take into account your monthly expenses, such as mortgage or rent, car payments, and utilities. Discretionary expenses should be excluded from this calculation. You should also determine the amount of money you will receive from retirement accounts such as a 401(k), Roth IRA, and IRA, separate from Social Security Income.

If your guaranteed income sources do not cover your monthly expenses, you will need to calculate how much monthly savings you require for retirement. Additionally, you will need to determine when your Social Security Benefit will provide enough income to supplement the remaining monthly expense amount. Timing is crucial, and you may need to delay your retirement if necessary to ensure that your income sources align with your expenses.

Annuities: The Wise Investment for a Secure Retirement?

Annuities: The Wise Investment for a Secure Retirement

When considering retirement planning, it's crucial to select an investment strategy that guarantees a fixed income for life. Annuities provide just that, making them the most reliable retirement plan available. By researching various annuity options, you can determine how much retirement savings are necessary to achieve your desired retirement goals.

Annuities offer the same security as a pension plan, which is a type of annuity. You can purchase an annuity contract with an income benefit using either a lump sum or a series of payments, including your current savings, traditional IRA, 401(k), and other retirement plans. Once you reach retirement age, the annuity will distribute a paycheck to you for the rest of your life, regardless of whether the account has run out of funds.

What Expenses Can You Expect When You're Retired?

When planning for retirement, it's crucial to estimate your anticipated expenses. This can be challenging, as many people are uncertain about what their expenses will be in retirement. By taking into account all possible expenses, such as increased travel, relocation, and higher healthcare costs, you can accurately estimate your retirement budget.

To reduce your tax bill, consider a Roth IRA annuity that pays a tax-free monthly income for life. Additionally, contributing to a non-qualified annuity can lower your taxable income since only the interest you earn is taxable, and there are no contribution limits. Your tax advisor would undoubtedly approve of this strategy.

Inflation can have a significant impact on the purchasing power of today's dollars, which is why it's essential to factor inflation into your retirement planning. Annuities can help combat inflation by increasing your income throughout retirement, ensuring you maintain the desired lifestyle.

Healthcare costs can be a significant expense in retirement. Budget for health insurance premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and long-term care, as they can be a financial burden. Annuities can help pay for these expenses at a fraction of the cost.

Longevity is a crucial aspect of retirement planning. It's difficult to predict how long you'll live, but it's crucial to plan for the possibility of a long life. Save as much as possible and plan to cover expenses if you live a long time. An annuity is an insurance policy that protects you from outliving your savings, providing peace of mind.

To cover final expenses and leave a death benefit for loved ones, purchase a life insurance policy. The younger you are, the more affordable the premiums will be. Additionally, a life insurance policy can help pay for long-term care costs in retirement.

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SD Bullion is a reliable precious metals dealer with an excellent online reputation. Their prices are competitive, and their customer service is top-notch.

The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and boasts an A+ rating. They also provide a low-price guarantee to help protect customers against costly market losses when buying gold and silver from them.

gold bullion sitting on a table

What is SD Bullion?

SD Bullion is an online gold and silver dealer that offers a wide range of products in coin and bar form. They're renowned for their competitive prices and superior customer service.

They offer an extensive selection of gold coins and bars, including popular American Gold Eagles and gold Buffaloes. Furthermore, they carry silver bullion products like gold rounds and coins from top mints around the world.

Established in 2012 by two doctors with a mission to restore financial stability for Americans, the company has since blossomed into one of the leading precious metal dealers online and is ranked #177 on Inc. magazine's list of fastest-growing businesses in America.

SD Bullion's impressive bullion depository can keep your valuable possessions safe from theft and the elements. New customers get three months free storage, with costs starting at just $9.99 per month depending on the monthly closing spot price of precious metals and total weight. You also have access to their free shipping offer as well. Plus, don't forget about their helpful app that helps manage your account!

free gold investing kit

SD Bullion Products and Services

SD Bullion offers a comprehensive selection of bullion products, such as gold coins and bars in various weights and grades from top mints around the world. Their most sought-after items include Gold American Eagles, Buffaloes, Canadian Gold Maples, US Gold, and Krugerrands. Furthermore, they carry silver coins in various weights and grades from leading mints around the world.

They provide a low-price guarantee, meaning if you find a price lower than theirs, they will match it. Furthermore, they have a monthly savings program which allows customers to invest in precious metals at discounted rates on an ongoing basis.

Another impressive feature is the company's storage depository service, fully insured by Lloyd's of London. This allows customers to store their gold in a secure environment 24/7 - an essential factor for sophisticated investors.

SD Bullion stocks an extensive selection of numismatic coins and collectibles, such as Mexican Silver Libertad coins, US silver coins, Royal Canadian coins and Australian Perth Mint coins.

How to Purchase Precious Metals

SD Bullion provides a broad selection of bullion products, such as gold, silver and platinum coins and bars. Investors can purchase tangible assets like American Eagles, Canadian Maples, Chinese Pandas and Mexican Libertads; plus international gold and silver coins ranging in size from one gram to ten ounces.

Payment options range from credit cards and e-checks to bank wires and cryptocurrency such as bitcoin. Some dealers also take these methods of payment.

Customers who place an order either online or by phone agree to SD Bullion's full terms and conditions, including our cancellation policy.

Cancellations must be requested via telephone during normal business hours. Each request is carefully assessed and only in exceptional circumstances will a cancellation be approved.

All cancelled buyback orders are subject to a 5% cancellation fee plus any market loss that SD Bullion may or may not incur by accepting the buyback order. These costs will be invoiced directly to the customer and must be settled within (10) business days.

Investing in precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum and other is an exciting and rewarding way to contribute to a growing market. However, it is essential that you understand the risks involved with investing in these metals and how to minimize them.

Ratings and Reviews

SD Bullion is a trusted and reliable precious metal dealer with over 1,000 five-star reviews from customers. This is due to their excellent customer service and wide selection of products available. Furthermore, they have low minimum buy amounts as well as international shipping capabilities - an added advantage.

In addition to their positive customer feedback, SD Bullion also enjoys an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. And at last check they boasted a 4.76 out of 5-star rating based on more than 640 reviews reported to the agency. They had just over 90 customer complaints at BBB that had been resolved over the last three years, and they are also BBB accredited.

They are a verified company with TrustPilot, where they have an "Excellent" rating. 2,152 reviewers have left feedback, giving them a solid 4.5 out of 5-star rating.

Is SD Bullion a Scam?

SD Bullion is an established precious metals dealer with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and twice featured on Inc. magazine's 500 Fastest Growing Companies list.

However, some people believe SD Bullion to be a scam. There have been some complaints about customer service and other problems, so it's important to decide if this company is suitable for you before investing any funds.

That said, SD Bullion is a legit company, with a solid reputation via the BBB and other agencies, so we'd say it's safe to say they definitely are not a scam.

When investing in precious metals, you must be certain the company you're dealing with is reliable and trustworthy. That's why reading SD Bullion reviews before making your purchase is so important.

They offer an impressive selection of coins, bars and rounds from some of the top mints worldwide. Their prices are competitively priced, plus they accept Bitcoin - something many other precious metal dealers don't do.

Furthermore, they are a go-to choice for those seeking to purchase and sell precious metals online. They ship worldwide and guarantee their products to be authentic. Furthermore, they provide secure storage options for gold, silver or platinum investors. Customers can select their preferred delivery method while paying extra insurance on the package at checkout.

SD Bullion Pros and Cons

While we recommend doing your own due diligence and research when it comes to deciding if SD Bullion is the right precious metals company for you, here are list of potential pros and cons for you to consider: 

Pros
  • Wide range of products: SD Bullion offers a diverse range of precious metals, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in the form of coins, bars, rounds, and bullets.

  • Competitive pricing: The company's prices for precious metals are often competitive compared to other dealers in the market, which can save you money.

  • Fast shipping: SD Bullion offers fast shipping options, including free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which can help you receive your order quickly.

  • Good customer service: Many customers have reported positive experiences with SD Bullion's customer service team, who are responsive and helpful.

Cons
  • Limited payment options: SD Bullion only accepts payments via bank wire, cashier's check, money order, or personal check, which can be inconvenient for some customers who prefer other payment methods.

  • Lack of online reviews: While there are some positive customer reviews for SD Bullion, there are not as many reviews available online compared to some other precious metals dealers, which may make it difficult to get a sense of the company's overall reputation.

  • Limited storage options: SD Bullion does not offer a storage option for customers who prefer to keep their precious metals in a secure facility.
  • No IRA services: SD Bullion does not offer IRA services, which can be a disadvantage for customers who want to invest in precious metals through their retirement accounts. If you're looking for a precious metals IRA option, see our top 7 choices here.

Summary

SD Bullion is a reputable precious metals dealer, with a variety of investment options to consider. It's important to do your own research and read reviews from multiple sources before making any investment decisions. You can find more information about SD Bullion and other precious metals dealers on websites like the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot.

Looking to invest in gold or silver? See why Goldco is our top pick:

Top Choice for Gold IRAs
goldco
9.8/10Our Score

Goldco has earned some of the highest marks across the industry for customer service and integrity, including an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau.

  • A+ Better Business Bureau Rating
  • AAA Rating via Business Consumer Alliance
  • Up to $10,000 in Free Silver with Qualifying Purchase
  • Easy 3-Step Process to Get Started

"The crew at GoldCo are professional and accommodating, extremely helpful and very easy to work with. My service rep, Tony Pino, was always available and willing to answer/explian any questions. Highly recommend them." -Mark G.

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Gold IRA Scam Highlights

  • Be on the lookout for high-pressure sales tactics
  • Look to agencies like the BBB, BCA, and TrustPilot to vet your gold IRA company
  • Be sure to research your gold depositories
  • Do your due diligence on self-storage 
  • See below for our trusted Gold IRA companies:

Goldco

Goldco has an A+ rating from the BBB, and they are experts in gold IRAs. I used Goldco for my own gold IRA, and I am happy to endorse them.

Augusta

Augusta Precious Metals is one of the most trusted names in the Gold IRA business. They offer a low-pressure experience for customers. 

Regal Assets

Regal Assets has been in the gold IRA business for more than a decade. They offer a unique IRA combination of precious metals and crypto. 

Is gold a safe way to protect my wealth and investment portfolio?

I would say yes, for the most part. Any investment or asset class is going to carry risks, but the value of gold simply doesn't drop overnight like stocks, bonds, and even real estate might.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Is Gold a Good Retirement Investment?

Is a gold IRA a smart way to invest in gold? 

I would say yes even more emphatically to this one. The benefits of gold against inflation and economic uncertainty combined with the tax benefits of the IRA shelter are a one-two punch that can power part of your retirement.

Are gold IRA scams something I should worry about?

Unfortunately, I have to answer yes to this question as well. History has demonstrated time and again that individual people and even entire organizations will be willing to take advantage of potential victims through any number of dirty tactics and scams.

This is unfortunately a risk in the gold IRA sector. Retirees or potential retirees are common targets for scams, and gold has been a historical target of criminal activity for thousands of years. You might not be able to avoid all risks entirely, but I'm going to cover the scams you should know about, how to spot them, and how to protect yourself the best that you can.

Top Gold IRA Scams to Watch for in 2022

One of the scary things about any economic sector is that future scams might be something no one has ever seen before. The warnings and guidelines I list later to protect yourself will probably still give you some guidance against future threats. For now, all you can do is know that current scams have already happened to other people so you can protect yourself from those.

There is one consistency at least. Future scams are going to be probably conducted by the same kind of people who have done these scams now or in the past. No matter how much you understand technology or not, being able to read people can be your saving grace.

a hand holds a smartphone with a scam alert icon above it

1. IRA Conversion Scams

One of the great things about precious metal IRAs is how you can fund them with a rollover of a previous IRA or even a 401(k) account. Your early investing accounts can start and grow your nest egg, and then you can later do a rollover for part of the portfolio into precious metals for diversification into an alternative asset class. Your exposure to precious metals should honestly grow as you get older and need to anchor some of your wealth outside the stock market.

Watch for High-Pressure Sales Tactics

One customer fell for the high-pressure tactics of one salesperson over a decade ago. This was a known retailer and not some brand that just opened up. The salesperson convinced the customer to convert their existing IRA into a precious metal IRA and buy $140,000 worth of rare proof coins.

The problem is that while rarity might indicate some market value in such coins, it doesn't reflect the actual gold value. Bullion coins are the only kind of coins that should go in a gold IRA, and the IRS is very strict about this. Since the company in question did this to the customer, that person lost $60,000 in asset value in just one day.

A lawsuit eventually refunded millions of dollars to defrauded customers, and the company in question certainly changed its business practices. The brand is very honest about price markups now, and they no longer use bait-and-switch techniques. In fact, that company is now an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating from the organization and an average of nearly 4 stars out of 5 by BBB users.

Key Takeaways 

The Better Business Bureau (see Gold IRA ratings), Business Consumer Alliance, and TrustPilot are all potentially great friends to you. I certainly rely on them when I do industry analysis.

an illustration of a glib salesman holding up a stack of cash

2. Glib Sales Professionals 

Some sales professionals might be downright giddy about the future of gold prices. Gold doesn't pay yields, interest, or dividends, so the only way you're going to profit off it is if the price or value of it goes up from the time you buy it to the time you liquidate, withdraw, or do a distribution from your IRA. Unfortunately, some salespersons will assure you that gold is only going to go up.

Know the Potential Ups and Downs of Investing in Gold

I can tell you right now that's not true. Is it likely to go up? Yes, in the long term.

Gold has grown considerably in value in the last 50 years, but that's over five different decades. The 1980s and 1990s weren't so great by themselves. Gold can go down in a five-year period, a five-day period, or even in just 5 minutes.

Watch the spot prices sometimes. They're a rollercoaster. You have to take the long view, and you have to diversify just in case.

Key Takeaways 

Never let someone rush you into buying something that they say will disappear after today. Also, never let anyone tell you to put everything into one particular asset. They might be preying on what some people call your "FOMO", which stands for fear of missing out.

an illustration that says "FAKE"

3. Fake IRAs

Creative scammers might sell you a phony precious metal IRA. They will convince you to actually transfer your money. Then, they will steal it.

Vet Your IRA Company Before Committing 

You'll wind up discovering that you have no gold thanks to someone who was using a fake identity. Once you know something happened, they've disappeared and moved on. They're either enjoying your money or preying on new victims. 

Key Takeaways 

Make sure their supposed company actually exists via the BBB and other resources. If it looks like they do represent a legitimate business, contact that broker directly to make sure the person is actually an authorized representative or one of their affiliates. The gold broker in question will be as concerned as you are if someone is representing them under false pretenses.

an illustration of a gold coin being deposited into a piggy bank

4. Depository Dilemmas 

A gold IRA actually involves two parties. One is the gold IRA broker. The other is the custodian.

The broker sets your gold IRA up, handles the money, and makes the specific metals purchases. Then, they ship the metals to the custodian. They have the depository your metals sit in during your active IRA.

Insurance is Key

Unfortunately, there have been cases where the metals never show up. That might be due to shipping problems or clerical errors, but it might also be due to theft or just the fact that the metals were never actually ordered. Always verify your metals and storage with the depository in question.

At a minimum, there should be a certificate provided to you that the metals arrived. Never do any of this without insurance, although the broker should take care of that as part of their service. Many depositories even send you images or webcam live streams of your part of their depository vault.

Key Takeaways 

Do as much research into depositories as you do brokers. You should quickly see that some of the major depositories are operated by brands known for anything from security systems to armored car transport banks use. Brinks is one example.

an illustration of a stack of gold in a garage

5. Self-Storage

Some gold IRA brokers, especially some newer ones, might tell you that you can actually choose self-storage as an option for your gold IRA precious metals. That basically means they're telling you that you can keep your precious metals at home or wherever you want instead of using an IRS-approved depository. That can appeal to some investors who don't necessarily trust depositories with all their wealth or investors who would rather save money on custodial charges and shipping later.

Should You Avoid This Options Altogether?

I typically don't recommend going the self-storage route. The IRS has never once stated that this is okay. That's mostly because of the risk of theft, but it's also to prevent individuals from possibly committing tax fraud in their IRA, whether intentionally or by accident.

Key Takeaways 

I often argue that investors should have a personal financial advisor to help them map out their investment goals and portfolio diversification, and I will now also strongly suggest you have a good attorney to consult about trying this. It's a legal grey area. The custodial services available in secure depositories are there to protect your money.

a large pile of gold coins

6. Shaved Coins

Certain gold dealers reportedly go through the practice of shaving several grains of gold from every coin, round, or bar that they sell you. Do this enough with high gold values, and it adds up. Gold is easy to melt and form into more bars and rounds.

Reputable Dealers Don't Typically Do This

This is not a common practice among the most reputable names in the industry. It's another case of doing your homework. Look hard into the specific mints that they work with so you know just what each metal product should weigh, and that's usually pretty consistent among gold products.

Key Takeaways 

A little communication with your depository goes a long way here. They can measure and confirm that what was shipped to them was exactly what you ordered and arranged to be stored there. Their scales should be digital and incredibly accurate.

an illustration of a magnifying glass helping to read the fine print of a contract

7. The Fine Print

Setting up a gold IRA involves a legal contract. In fact, it might involve several. Read everything you aren't personally comfortable with before you sign it.

Key Takeaways 

This is the second time I'll advise you to have a qualified lawyer to work with. They can make sure that any contract is totally legitimate. Be sure you're not taking any unnecessary legal risks.

Warning Signs for Potential Gold Scams 

1

Be Wary of People That Guarantee Specific Investment Returns

The first thing I'll warn you about is anyone who tells you that investing in gold isn't risky. It actually really is. You can lose money.

That's not to say gold isn't a great investment for retirement purposes or long-term planning. Gold prices historically have gone up quite a bit over the last 50 years, but they fluctuate a lot in the short term. There are also no guarantees insuring your precious metal like when you save money at a bank.

If someone "guarantees" you specific returns in precious metals, then walk away. There are absolutely no guarantees in this industry. Don't waste your time with anyone who says there is.

2

False Advertising 

I'll assume that if you found this content, you've been searching for information about investing in gold. That's going to expose you to advertisements and lots of them. Be careful about any you specifically respond to, as it's better to do your homework and research to make your own informed decisions.

3

Be Wary of Offers of Buying Metals Below the Spot Price

Think twice about buying any precious metal listed below the spot price. This might be more risk outside of gold IRAs for those buying their own metals. Someone determined to liquidate might go a little below spot price in order to cash out quickly, but precious metal products going for a lot less than spot prices usually have a very troublesome story behind them that you don't want to be a part of.

4

Companies That Want You to Send Money Overseas

This doesn't really matter much for gold IRAs, but be careful about sending your money overseas. Merchants and dealers not in the United States will be outside the reach of American law enforcement. This is one reason you'll see so few international coins or storage options in gold IRAs.

5

Companies That Offer Unsolicited Communications

Don't respond to unsolicited communications. Emails, text messages, and phone calls might come to you and look or sound like they're on behalf of a precious metal broker you've heard of, but it might be someone usurping their identity. Pick your gold IRA broker on your own and then contact them.

6

Companies Make Claims of Limited Supply

Never deal with anyone saying there is a limited supply of gold and silver coins available and trying to pressure you to buy them. Granted, if there weren't limited volumes of precious metals available, they wouldn't be precious, would they? However, I can assure you that if you stick to bullion, you'll still be able to find American Gold Eagles and Canadian Maple Leaf coins on the market tomorrow.

an illustration of a police office in uniform

Reporting Precious Metals Scams

If the worst comes to pass and you think you've been victimized by a precious metal investment scam, then there are a number of authorities you can report your situation to.

Local Police

You might want to start with your local police. Charges might be filed for the jurisdiction that you live in, and they can also point you in the right direction of other potential authorities. Visit a station or call the non-emergency line, as these cases usually don't warrant using the 911 resources reserved for urgent emergencies. 

State Attorney General 

Your state attorney general's office might be interested in the case. They might also know the proper state-level departments or offices to refer you to.

Federal Law Enforcement Agencies

Any transactions happening across state lines usually fall into the realm of federal jurisdiction. The local field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation might be your starting point for such matters.

Federal Trade Commission 

In cases of fraud, you might just want to start with the Federal Trade Commission.

Commodities Futures Trade Commission 

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission might be an applicable resource.

United States Postal Inspection Service

Report any mail fraud you suspect to the United States Postal Inspection Service.

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Final Thoughts

You can buy gold and own the physical metals on your own, or you can invest in a gold IRA. I think going the gold IRA route is the safer of the two. While there are obviously gold IRA scams that might happen, there are simply far fewer opportunities for scams to happen in an IRA investment ecosystem.

The IRS is a big part of that. Gold IRAs are tightly regulated by the government, and a lot of the rules simply prevent many problems that might happen more often to those who decide to own their own metals outside of the account structure. Theft and lack of insurance are huge concerns for private owners who don't use brokers and depositories.

RELATED: Should I Buy Gold or Silver?

There are two things you can do to protect yourself if you do get a gold IRA, in addition to the steps I listed previously. Do your homework, and diversify. Both are important.

The precious metal industry has dozens of potential brokers you can use for a gold IRA. Research any options that you are interested in to make sure you can actually trust them. Keep an eye on their ratings, feedback, complaints, and lawsuits both before you invest with them and then while you're also with them.

Portfolio diversification is crucial because not every asset class will be going up all the time. However, diversification can also protect your overall wealth from potential scams. If you do fall victim to something in the precious metals asset class, you'll only lose the 5% to 15% of your portfolio that you put into it if you diversified across multiple asset classes, leaving you the rest to keep moving forward with into the future.

Read More
six gold bars stacked in a pyramid

Gold Highlights

Historically, gold has been considered an excellent hedge against inflation. It offers a variety of investment options including Gold IRAs, ETFs, Gold Stocks, Gold Bars and Coins and more. Learn much more about gold in our article below. 

an uneven stack of six silver bars

Silver Highlights

Silver offers many of the same benefits that gold does, and can also be purchased through a precious metals IRA and via bars, coins, and more. It's a tangible asset and historically has been cheaper to purchase than gold.

Have you decided to invest in precious metals?

If so, then I think you're probably making a smart move. Precious metals have so many benefits that it's not even funny.

You can preserve wealth in a physical format that retains its value really well. It even grows in value most of the time. Precious metals anchor your wealth or portfolio in times of inflation and economic instability.

Investing in precious metals is a great decision, but it's only the first decision. Your next move might be looking for places to buy precious metals, but you'll quickly realize you have another choice to make. As you look at options for buying precious metals, you'll notice that nearly all of them deal with gold and silver.

Is it better to buy gold? Or should you get silver? They're both precious metals that offer many of the same benefits, but they're not identical by any stretch of the imagination.

I don't know if this is a decision I can make for you. However, as an analyst of the precious metal industry, I know quite a bit about both metals. I'll be happy to share that knowledge with you so you can make an informed decision about which is best for you.

six gold bars stacked in a pyramid

Gold: An Overview

When you think about precious metals, gold is always the first one to come to mind. Kings and emperors have used it for coins and wealth for thousands of years. Pirates and explorers alike sailed around the world looking for it.

For a time, gold was the standard upon which many national currencies were based. It's still an international standard for investing and maintaining wealth. I think gold should be the first precious metal you consider, but it shouldn't be the only one.

Gold Pros and Cons

Gold has many advantages for owners, but it's also got some potential downsides. Let's take a quick look at both the pros and cons to give you a better idea about the upsides of Gold, while also keeping you informed about any potential downsides.

Pros
  • Hedge against inflation
  • Preserves value
  • Diversify your portfolio
  • Simple asset
  • Wealth preservation during economic disaster
Cons
  • Storage can be risky and expensive
  • Doesn't generate passive income
  • Taxes can be high
  • Premium prices
  • Returns not guaranteed

Historical Performance

According to Statista, gold's annual average return from the start of 1971 until the end of 2019 was 10.61% per year. I urge you to remember that this is an average. The Great Recession, the recent global pandemic, and the 1970s were all booming times for gold, but the 1980s and 1990s were not.

Gold Values

Gold prices fluctuate all the time, but I can tell you that in the last few years that this metal has been floating around the $2,000 mark. According to Investopedia gold hit a then historical high of $2,075 in August of 2020 during the early pandemic. It cooled off for a while but went over the $2,000 mark again in March of 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, as investors flocked to the usual safety and comfort of gold during a geopolitical and economic crisis.

an uneven stack of six silver bars

Silver: An Overview

I've always noticed that silver seems to take second place to gold. In the Olympics, gold medalists are triumphant over silver medalists. Dealers and brokers usually refer to "gold and silver" but rarely "silver and gold". That's fueled plenty of other cultural norms and references where silver is thought of as good but gold is great, and we even instill this in our kids at a young age. 

Is it actually true? I'm not going to argue that Olympic medals should be put into a new order, but I'm also going to tell you that in precious metals that silver might not always be a second choice behind gold.

Silver Pros and Cons

Silver has many of the same benefits as gold, but it still is a unique metal all its own.

Pros
  • Tangible asset class
  • Physical wealth preservation
  • Cheaper to buy than gold
  • Growth in value
  • Easy to store
Cons
  • No dividends or yields
  • Risk of theft
  • Liquidity complications

Historical Performance

According to U.S. News, the last century of silver has seen its value go up by nearly 30-fold. It was $0.68 per ounce at one point in 1922, and $18.68 in August of 2022. Silver has done 67% better than inflation in the United States.

Silver Values

Despite an impressive century, SilverPrice.org points out that it's been quite a roller coaster. Silver hit highs in the early 1980s and then again in 2011 at almost $50 per ounce. The precious metal plummeted since then, bottoming out at around $14 per ounce in 2016. Since then, silver has fluctuated between $16 and $20 per ounce.

a large pile of gold and silver bars

How to Buy Gold and Silver

Gold and silver are both precious metals that you can buy. I'm afraid I have to tell you that you have another decision to make here. There are multiple ways to buy either one, and you'll have to choose which one is right for you.

Precious Metals IRAs

These are commonly known as gold or silver IRAs, but you can usually invest in gold, silver, platinum, and even palladium with them. You need a broker to set one of these up. The metals you purchase are stored in a depository as long as the account is active.

You get the usual IRA benefits with these accounts. Any earnings or rise in value in the account isn't taxed while the account is active. If you wait until age 59 1/2 or later to make your withdrawals, your taxes will be reduced greatly.


Read about our list of the best precious metals IRAs here.

Coins

Many gold and silver coins are eligible for purchase in a precious metal IRA. You can buy any of them for your own private collection or personal investment outside of an IRA. The values on these coins might be higher than just the spot price of the potential scrap metal contained within.

There are two reasons for that. The first is simply collectibility, as there are many coin collectors that like having certain pieces in their personal possession. Secondly, there can be even a few art collectors that enjoy the visual aesthetics of a coin, even if they're not typically coin collectors, per se. In both cases, demand goes up, so values and prices go up.

Bars

Gold and silver bars are when each precious metal is melted and formed into a physical bar. These are usually produced by private mints instead of government facilities. They're very easy to stack for compact storage.

Their value is usually nothing more than their melt value, and they usually have the lowest premiums over spot value. Gold bars are typically 1 kilogram each. Silver bars are usually produced in 100-ounce units.

Bullion

Gold and silver can also be bullion in coin form. Not all coins are actually government tender or produced by government mints, but they might be accepted as legal tender. This is more likely if they are gold content than silver.

Gold and silver coins are usually harder to fake than bars that might be hollowed out or have non-precious metals inside. Coins are also easier to ship and transport in many cases. Their values tend to be higher than bars on average.

Jewelry

Gold and silver are both used in making jewelry. This happens in many cultures, and it does impact the prices and values of gold, at least. Gold prices are usually at their highest every October, which coincides with the wedding season in India, and demand for gold jewelry is also high.

Jewelry probably has more of an impact on gold prices than on silver, but it affects both. Buying jewelry might not be the best route for investing in either metal, however. From a precious metal value, a lot of jewelry is only worth the spot price for potential scrap without any consideration of aesthetic or collectible value, except in rare cases. Another huge risk is how much jewelry is either not pure or just fake.

Gold vs Silver: How Do You Choose?

I'd advise you to consult your financial advisor about the specific percentage of your portfolio to have in precious metals, although 5% to 15% is a common range.

If you don't have a personal financial planner, then I strongly suggest you get one before you choose between silver and gold.

How do you eventually pick between them?

You Should Choose Gold Over Silver If...

  • You want to use less physical storage
  • You want a metal that doesn't tarnish
  • You want a hedge against inflation
You Should Choose Silver Over Gold If...

  • You want the cheaper asset to buy
  • You're okay taking more risk
  • You want to see industrial applications drive up values
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MEET THE TEAM

MMH is led by Mitt Wilson. Mitt is a trained journalist, and has been writing about precious metals investment for more than a decade. Precious work includes writing for RetirementAce. Learn more about Mitt and the MMH team on our about page.

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