Category: Buy Gold

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Gold Purity: Why is it 99.99% and not 100%?

Why is fine gold 99.999% and not 100% - Understanding the purity of gold

Fine gold is renowned for its unparalleled purity, but have you ever wondered why it is not classified as 100% pure? In this article, we will discuss fine gold purity and shed light on the reasons behind its remarkable 99.999% standard. At J Blundell and Sons, we offer LBMA approved bars, guaranteeing the utmost purity in new gold bar products at ‘four nines’ of 99.99%. Do note that purity above 99.9% is globally considered as Fine Gold.

The Quest for Ultimate Purity:

To understand why fine gold is not 100% pure, let’s explore the refining process. According to the Royal Canadian Mint, gold undergoes a two-stage refinement procedure. Initially, the Miller chlorination process is employed, refining gold to a high degree of .995 purity. Subsequently, the Mint adopts the Wohlwill electrolytic process, which further refines the gold to 99.99%+ purity. It can ven reach 99.999% and 99.9999%+ for bullion and collectible coins. Refining commences with the reception of doré, a new product from mines, and primary refiners like the Mint also process recycled scrap such as jewelry and coins. By utilizing a semi-refined product containing at least half base metal, they produce fine metal of exceptional quality.

The Limitations of Attaining 100% Purity:

Creating 100% pure gold is technically unfeasible, making 99.9% fine gold the industry standard for “pure” gold. Even the most esteemed mints, like Australia’s Perth Mint, have achieved a fineness of 99.9999% (referred to as “six nines”). This impressive level of purity is a mere 0.0001% shy of being entirely pure gold.

The Global Pursuit of Purity:

Across the globe, reputable mints endeavor to produce gold coins of exceptional purity. For instance, The Royal Mint’s gold Britannia coinis minted to a fineness of 999.9. The Perth Mint of Australia remains dedicated to pure gold coins despite the cost implications of achieving ‘six nines’ fineness. Additionally, the Canadian Royal Mint produces their Maple coin series in 24-karat gold, boasting a rivalry with the Perth Mint. The Canadian Royal Mint has achieved an impressive purity level of “five nines” (99.999%) for their gold coins.

Conclusion:

While 100% pure gold may be an elusive goal, global standard for Fine Gold is any purity is higher that 99.9%. At J Blundell and Sons, we pride ourselves on providing only the 99.99% fine gold bars. Our commitment to purity ensures that you can invest in gold with confidence and enjoy the brilliance of this remarkable precious metal.

References:

  • Royal Canadian Mint: Refining and Assaying (www.mint.ca)
  • London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Approved Refiners List (www.lbma.org.uk)
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Why UK Bullion Dealers Need ID from Customers: A Guide to Compliance and Regulations

ID collection for VAT exemption

As an educated investor, you may have wondered why UK bullion dealers ask for identification from customers. In this guide, we will explore the reasons behind this requirement, the compliance and regulations that govern this practice, and the types of identification required. It is important to note that these documentation needs ars for compliance purposes and the bullion dealer is not obliged to submit them to any government agencies, unless there is warrant for it. The main reasons for collecting ID documents from customers are as follows,

  • Know Your Customer (KYC)
  • Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
  • VAT Exemption

Know Your Customer (KYC)

One of the primary reasons UK bullion dealers require ID from customers is to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. KYC is a mandatory process designed to verify the identity of customers and ensure they are not involved in money laundering or other illegal activities. UK bullion dealers are required to collect specific information such as name, address, date of birth, and occupation, which will be cross-checked against government databases.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

Another reason why UK bullion dealers require ID from customers is to comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. AML regulations are designed to prevent the illegal movement of money through financial institutions. Bullion dealers must comply with these regulations by verifying the identity of their customers and monitoring their transactions for any suspicious activity.

VAT Exemption

UK bullion dealers also require ID from customers to ensure compliance with VAT exemption regulations. HMRC VAT701/21 requires bullion dealers to keep a record of each customer’s name and address and the quantity and type of bullion sold. The ID collected from customers is essential to prove the bullion is being sold to an individual or entity that qualifies for VAT exemption.

Types of Identification Required

When buying gold bullion in the UK, customers are required to provide one or more of the following forms of identification:

  • A valid passport
  • A valid UK driver’s license
  • A national ID card issued by a European Union member state
  • A government-issued identity card from another country
  • A recent utility bill or bank statement that confirms the customer’s address

When buying Gold Bullion for a Company If a company is buying gold bullion, it is also required to provide identification to comply with KYC and AML regulations. In addition to providing the company’s registration documents, a company representative must provide identification, such as a passport or driver’s license.

In summary, UK bullion dealers require identification from customers to comply with regulations and ensure that they are not facilitating money laundering or other illegal activities. Customers are required to provide identification that verifies their identity and address, and companies must provide additional registration documents. By understanding these requirements, you can be confident that UK bullion dealers are taking the necessary steps to ensure compliance and protect the integrity of the gold bullion market.

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Physical Gold Investment Options: A Guide to Understanding Your Choices

investment gold, gold bar, gold coin, bullion, uk

Investing in physical gold can be a smart way to diversify your investment portfolio and protect your wealth from market volatility. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most popular physical gold investment options available to you. We’ll cover topics such as gold bars, gold coins, gold IRAs, VAT exemption on gold, and CGT-free gold coins.

Gold Bars

Gold bars are one of the most popular physical gold investment options available. They come in various sizes, from small bars weighing just a few grams to larger bars weighing several kilograms. When buying gold bars, it’s important to consider factors such as the purity of the gold, the brand, and the dealer’s reputation. Keep in mind that larger bars can be more difficult to sell and may require an assay certificate.

Gold Coins

Gold coins are another popular physical gold investment option. Some of the most well-known gold coins include the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, and South African Krugerrand. Gold coins are generally more expensive than gold bars due to their numismatic value. When buying gold coins, it’s important to consider factors such as the coin’s condition, rarity, and authenticity.

Gold IRAs

A gold IRA is a self-directed IRA that allows you to invest in physical gold as a part of your retirement savings. This option can be attractive to investors who are looking to diversify their retirement portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds. However, it’s important to understand the fees and requirements associated with gold IRAs before investing.

VAT Exemption on Gold

In the UK, investment gold is VAT exempt, which means you won’t have to pay VAT on your gold investment. This exemption applies to gold bars and coins that meet certain purity and weight requirements. Keep in mind that collectible coins, such as numismatic coins, are not eligible for VAT exemption.

CGT-Free Gold Coins

Certain gold coins, such as Sovereigns and Britannia coins, are also exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT). This means that you won’t have to pay tax on any gains you make when selling these coins. However, it’s important to understand the CGT-free threshold and other rules associated with these coins before investing.

Conclusion

Investing in physical gold can be a smart way to diversify your investment portfolio and protect your wealth from market volatility. By understanding the different physical gold investment options available to you, including gold bars, gold coins, gold IRAs, VAT exemption on gold, and CGT-free gold coins, you can make informed decisions about how to invest your money. At J Blundell & Sons Ltd, we offer a wide range of physical gold investment options, including gold bars and coins, to help our customers make the most of their investment.

investment gold, gold bar, gold coin, bullion, uk
ash@jblundells.co.uk.com
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Investment Gold Price Variation

marketing businessman person hands

The global market has made buying and selling investment gold more accessible than ever before. However, have you ever noticed that the price of a particular gold bar or coin can vary greatly between different sellers? Understanding the factors that contribute to these price variations is crucial to getting the best price for your investment gold. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind investment gold pricing and what you should consider when buying or selling investment gold online.

Understanding Gold’s Live Spot Price

The price of investment gold is constantly changing and is largely determined by the spot price of gold. This live market price for gold can fluctuate throughout the day as the market changes, and it’s determined by various factors such as global supply and demand, inflation, and currency exchange rates. When comparing websites or dealers, it’s essential to ensure that you check the prices at the same time to get an accurate comparison.

Differences in Markups and Premiums

The markup or premium added by the seller can vary depending on several factors such as the dealer’s reputation, marketing spend, customer base, procurement costs, business model, and size. Smaller retailers often have higher procurement costs due to their lower volume of purchases, resulting in higher markups on their products. Additionally, some sellers may include insurance and delivery costs in their prices, while others may charge for these services separately. Understanding these factors can help you make more informed decisions when buying or selling investment gold.

Customer Base and Costs of the Seller

The reputation and customer base of the seller can also influence the price of investment gold. Established dealers with a loyal customer base may charge higher prices due to the trust they’ve built with their customers. On the other hand, newer or less established dealers may offer lower prices to attract new customers.

Delivery and Insurance Costs

When purchasing investment gold online, it’s important to consider delivery and insurance costs. These costs can vary depending on the weight and value of the gold being shipped, as well as the location of the seller and buyer. Be sure to factor in these costs when comparing prices between different sellers.

Market Supply and Demand Dynamics

Finally, market supply and demand dynamics can also impact the price of investment gold. For example, the release of a new gold coin or limited availability of a certain gold product can drive up demand and prices. It’s important to keep up with market news and trends to stay informed about any potential price changes.

In summary, when buying or selling investment gold online, there are several key factors to keep in mind that can influence pricing, including the spot price of gold, markups and premiums, delivery and insurance costs, the reputation and customer base of the seller, and market supply and demand dynamics. By keeping these factors in mind and doing your research, you can make informed decisions when buying or selling investment gold and ensure that you get the best price possible.

At J Blundell & Sons Ltd, we offer competitive prices and exceptional customer service to help our customers make the most of their investment in gold. So, whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started with buying investment gold, we’re here to help you make informed decisions.

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Investing in Gold to offest Inflation in UK

cost of living crisis, inflation in UK

As an investor, it’s important to protect your wealth against inflation. Inflation can erode the value of your investments, making it difficult to achieve your long-term financial goals. One way to hedge against inflation is to invest in gold, a safe haven asset that has historically performed well during times of economic uncertainty. Here’s what you need to know about protecting against inflation with gold in the UK.

The Impact of Inflation on the UK Economy

Inflation is a measure of how much the prices of goods and services in an economy are rising over time. In the UK, inflation is measured using the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), which tracks the price changes of a basket of goods and services commonly purchased by households. Over the last 10 years, the UK has experienced an average inflation rate of 2.16% per year, with the highest inflation rate recorded in 2011 at 4.50%.

The Relationship Between Gold and Inflation

Gold has long been considered a hedge against inflation. When the value of currency declines due to inflation, gold tends to maintain its value or even increase in value. This is because gold is a tangible asset that is not affected by the same economic factors as paper currency. In fact, the price of gold has historically increased during times of high inflation.

The Price of Gold and Inflation in the UK

Over the last 10 years, the price of gold in GBP has increased by 131.81%, while the average inflation rate in the UK was 2.16%. This means that the real value of gold has increased significantly over the last decade, making it a popular choice for investors looking to protect their wealth against inflation.

Investing in Gold as a Safe Haven Asset

Gold is often referred to as a safe haven asset because it tends to hold its value during times of economic uncertainty. When stock markets decline or geopolitical tensions rise, investors often flock to gold as a way to protect their wealth. This makes gold an attractive investment option for those looking for a hedge against inflation and a way to diversify their portfolio.

Buying Gold as a Hedge Against Inflation in the UK

There are several ways to invest in gold, including buying physical gold bullion or investing in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Physical gold can be purchased in the form of coins, bars, or jewellery, and can be stored at home or in a secure vault. Gold ETFs, on the other hand, are traded on stock exchanges and provide exposure to the price of gold without the need for physical ownership.

Protecting your wealth against inflation is important for achieving your long-term financial goals. By investing in gold, you can hedge against inflation and diversify your portfolio with a safe haven asset. If you’re considering investing in gold, contact J Blundell & Sons Ltd for expert advice and guidance on buying gold in the UK.

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LBMA Approved Gold Bullion: What It Is and Why It Matters for Investors

As an investor, you may have heard the term “LBMA approved gold bullion” thrown around. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for your investment portfolio? In this post, we will delve into what LBMA is, why it is a global standard, and explain LBMA accreditation in simple terms.

What is LBMA?

LBMA stands for the London Bullion Market Association, an international trade association that represents the wholesale market for gold and silver in London. It was founded in 1987 by the Bank of England and a group of bullion traders in response to growing concerns about market transparency and integrity.

The LBMA operates on a not-for-profit basis and sets standards for the quality and production of gold and silver bars. It also oversees the Good Delivery List, which is recognized as the international benchmark for the quality of gold and silver bars.

Is it a global standard?

Yes, the LBMA is recognized as a global authority on the physical precious metals market, and its standards for gold bullion are widely accepted by traders, investors, and refiners around the world. To be approved by the LBMA, a manufacturer must meet strict criteria regarding the quality and purity of their gold, as well as their production processes and ethical standards.

LBMA approved gold bullion is widely traded and accepted in international markets, and it is often the preferred choice for institutional investors and central banks. When you invest in LBMA approved gold bullion, you can be confident that you are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity.

LBMA accreditation explained in simple terms

LBMA approved gold bullion refers to gold bars or coins that a manufacturer approved by the LBMA has produced. To maintain LBMA approval, a manufacturer must meet strict criteria regarding the quality and purity of their gold, as well as their production processes and ethical standards.

LBMA approved gold bullion is widely recognized and accepted in international markets, which can make it easier to buy and sell your investment when you need to. When you buy LBMA approved gold bullion, you can be confident that you are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity.

Where can you buy LBMA accredited gold bars?

At J Blundell and Sons, we only sell LBMA approved gold bars with full certificates, so you can invest with confidence. In addition, our gold bars come with full certificates, providing you with proof of their authenticity and purity. This can give you peace of mind when buying and selling your investment. Please head to Gold bars page

In conclusion, LBMA approved gold bullion is an important consideration for investors who are looking to invest in gold. By choosing LBMA approved gold bullion, investors can be confident that they are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity, which can be important if they are using the gold for investment purposes. If you are looking to invest in gold, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable dealer that offers LBMA approved gold bullion.

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Why Should You Invest in Physical Gold? | JBlundell and Sons Ltd

Physical gold has become an increasingly popular investment choice over the years. Investors are drawn to its stability, liquidity, and portability. This makes it a great option for those wanting to diversify their portfolios by adding tangible assets that have stood the test of time.

Gold is seen as a safe-haven asset because it is less volatile than other investments like stocks and bonds. It also acts as a hedge against inflation since its value tends to rise when inflation does. Gold prices usually increase when investors want security during times of economic or political disruption, making it a reliable form of protection in uncertain markets.

Another benefit of investing in physical gold is that it’s easy to buy and store safely. You can purchase gold coins, bars and bullion from JBlundell & Sons’ various locations across the UK. Our staff can help you find the right product for your specific needs or budget. We also offer secure storage solutions to protect your investment from theft or damage.

Gold is an ideal long-term investment that provides a solid base for diversifying your portfolio. It has proven itself time and again as an effective hedge against risk and inflation, making it a dependable choice when considering how to invest your money. With JBlundell & Sons, you can rest assured that you’re getting quality gold products at competitive prices with reliable service and support every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about investing in physical gold. We look forward to helping you achieve your investment goals!

Thanks for reading! Stay informed about the latest gold news and trends by following JBlundell & Sons on social media. We post updates weekly so you never miss a beat! Feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions or would like to get started investing in physical gold today. Together, we can make your investments secure and successful. Happy investing!

JBlundell & Sons Ltd, Investing in Physical Gold. Secure Your Future. Make It Happen. Contact Us Today. Let’s Get Started!

British Sovereign gold coins on rustic wooden background
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When is the best time to buy Gold?

Investing in Gold is a great way to protect your wealth and secure your future. But when is the best time to buy Gold? 

Gold prices tend to move seasonally, meaning they are likely to peak at certain times of the year. The most important factor to consider when deciding when is the best time to buy Gold is what Gold prices are doing at any given moment. The best approach is usually buying during periods when Gold prices are falling and selling during periods when Gold prices are rising. 

Let’s take a closer look at buying Gold and determine when you should invest.

The best time to buy Gold depends on several factors, including the current market conditions, political landscape, and economic outlook. 

Here are our top three points to consider before investing in Gold: 

  • Market Conditions: When determining when to buy gold in the UK, it is important to keep an eye on global market conditions. People tend to flock towards Gold if there is volatility or uncertainty in other markets—such as stocks or foreign currencies. This can drive up demand for Gold and push prices higher. 
  • Political Landscape: Political events can have a major impact on Gold prices. For example, suppose there is political unrest or turmoil in a certain country or region. In that case, it could cause investors to flee that region’s currency and seek out the stability of Gold investments instead. 
  • Economic Outlook: The health of an economy can also affect when you should buy Gold. During times of recession, investors may view buying Gold as a safe bet instead of putting their money into other investments that may be riskier during an economic downturn. On the other hand, if an economy is expanding rapidly, people may want to invest in higher-risk ventures instead of buying Gold.  

Many factors go into determining when you should buy Gold. It’s essential to pay attention to market conditions, political events around the world, and overall economic outlook before making any decisions about investing. Keeping track of these indicators will help you make informed decisions about your investments to maximise your returns over time. By understanding how different factors affect Gold’s price, you can ensure that you invest at just the right moment!

*Please note that we are not financial advisors, so always do your own research before investing in Gold.  

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Investing in Gold for your child’s future

Investing in Gold can be a great way to ensure that your children have a secure financial future. Gold is a precious metal, and its value tends to appreciate over time, making it an attractive option for diversifying investments. 

Physical Gold is a great way to ensure that your children have something tangible and lasting to pass on through generations. Gold bars, coins, and jewellery are all popular investments. 

What Are the Benefits of Investing in Gold? 

Gold is seen as a hedge against inflation and currency depreciation, meaning that even if prices rise or the value of a currency falls, your investments will still retain their value (or increase) over time. This makes it an ideal long-term investment option. 

Investing in Gold for your children is also tax-advantaged; depending on where you live and how you structure your investments, you can benefit from lower taxes on any profits earned by investing in Gold. 

Things To Consider Before Investing In Physical Gold 

When investing in physical Gold for your children, there are a few things to consider before making any purchase.

  • Research Gold products to find out what best suits your needs and budget. 
  • Make sure you buy from reputable dealers who can provide certificates of authenticity for their products if necessary. 
  • Understand the tax implications of buying, holding and selling physical Gold so you can decide on the best way to invest in this precious metal for your children’s future. 
  • Research insurance and storage to protect the Gold until your children are old enough to look after it themselves. 

Investing in physical Gold is a great way to ensure that you leave something tangible behind for your children when they grow up. It offers many potential benefits, including liquidity and diversification, but some risks are involved, too, so research carefully before making any purchases.

We are always happy to help you with investment advice, but please be aware that we are not financial advisers. It’s important to do your own research before making any investments.

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Buying Gold as a Christmas Gift This Year 

Gold is becoming an increasingly popular gift for Christmas; we’ve put together some of our top reasons why Gold could be the perfect Christmas gift this year. 

The Benefits of Gold Investments 

Gold has a long history of being valuable and has recently gained more attention as an alternative investment option. As the global economy continues to experience uncertain times, Gold can provide stability and protection against inflation. Gold also has a unique quality that sets it apart from other investment options; it holds its value during economic downturns and can even increase in value during these periods. Gold is also easy to purchase and store without worrying about drastic changes in price over time. 

Why Give Gold at Christmas? 

Gold is an ideal Christmas gift because it is both meaningful and personal. Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose from several different types of Gold gifts, such as unique coins, bars, or jewellery. 

Gold is easy to wrap up and put under the tree. Coins come in various sizes, so you can buy one that fits your budget; they also make excellent stocking fillers! For larger gifts like jewellery or bars, just be sure to do your research beforehand so you know exactly what you’re getting before making a purchase. Be careful when buying second-hand items—ensure they are authentic and have certificates of authenticity if possible! 

The person you are buying Gold for will definitely appreciate the thoughtfulness behind your choice to give them something that carries such a significant value. Gold gifts can be tailored to meet any budget size, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank when shopping for your loved ones. 

Giving gold as a Christmas gift allows you to make a lasting impression on your loved ones while also providing them with an investment that they can pass down through generations. With its timeless beauty and intrinsic value, giving Gold at Christmas will surely make it a gift to remember!