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Gold Demand Surges as UK rides Recession

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The recent declaration of a UK economic recession has triggered a notable response in the investment sphere, notably reflecting in The Royal Mint’s report of a significant 22% uptick in daily gold sales last Thursday 15th February 2024.. This sheds light on a substantial shift in investor sentiment.

Market Insights Analyst Commentary

Offering insights, Market Insights Analyst Stuart O’Reilly from The Royal Mint pointed out that the news of the UK recession prompted investors to reassess strategies, leading many to turn to gold as a steadfast safe-haven for preserving wealth. The impending impact on interest rates and inflation fuelled renewed interest in gold, potentially affecting central banks’ monetary policies.

Factors Driving Gold Demand:

O’Reilly underscored several factors behind the surge in gold demand. The possibility of lower interest rates, often viewed favourably for gold, became a significant consideration for investors. Gold’s historical resilience during recessions and economic uncertainty further contributed to the surge. Additionally, geopolitical risks, signs of banking sector turmoil in the US and China, and the potential for central bank gold buying all played roles in driving up demand.

Data from The Royal Mint revealed a trend where investors are turning to gold and precious metals to diversify portfolios and hedge against risks. Notably, Sovereign and Britannia gold bullion coin and bar investment products emerged as preferred choices among investors. An interesting aspect highlighted is that these bullion coins are Capital Gains Tax-exempt for UK residents, providing a unique advantage for investors seeking tax efficiency amid market fluctuations.

Conclusion:

The recent surge in gold demand, as evidenced by The Royal Mint’s data, depicts investors actively seeking stability in uncertain times. Gold’s enduring appeal as a safe-haven asset is once again underscored as economic conditions prompt a re-evaluation of investment strategies. As the landscape evolves, the precious metal market may continue to be a focal point for investors navigating the complexities of a recessionary environment.

Discover the vast range of gold bullion made easy at jblundells.co.uk. As a trusted and credible gold dealer, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional customer service and the highest quality of LMBA-approved gold bars and gold coins.

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Gift Gold Bullion This Christmas

The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, and what better way to make it special than by gifting gold bullion? In this blog, we will establish why gifting gold is a brilliant idea for Christmas. Whether you’re considering a unique present for a loved one or exploring investment options, gold bullion shines as a thoughtful and enduring choice. Join us as we explore the timeless allure and benefits of gifting gold this festive season.

Why Gift Gold?


Gifting gold bullion this Christmas brings the timeless appeal of a valuable and enduring present. Gold’s intrinsic worth and long-term investment potential make it a precious gift that stands the test of time. It serves as a symbol of wealth preservation and financial security, while its unique and memorable nature reflects thoughtfulness and care for the recipient’s financial well-being. With its lasting value and universal charm, gifting gold bullion is a brilliant choice for a holiday gift that truly shines.

Choosing Gold Coins


Discover a fantastic selection of gold bullion coins at J. Blundell & Sons, ideal for unforgettable gifts. Our range includes renowned choices like Canadian Maple Leafs and South African Krugerrands, celebrated for their exceptional quality and iconic designs, perfect for special occasions. Furthermore, explore our collection of unique collector’s coins and historical pieces, including Britannia and Sovereign Coins. Whether you seek a classic coin or a one-of-a-kind treasure, J. Blundell & Sons provides the perfect gold bullion gift options for any occasion.

Why Gift Bullion Bars?


Choosing gold bullion bars as gifts offers numerous advantages. These bars are highly valued for their purity and intrinsic worth, making them an elegant and timeless choice. With various sizes available, you can tailor your gift to suit any budget, from personal adornment to display. Their simple design, often featuring weight and purity markings, appeals to those who appreciate classic aesthetics. Additionally, gold bullion bars enjoy global recognition and investment potential, promising long-term growth along with sentimental value. Whether customised with engravings or presented in their purest form, gold bullion bars make universally cherished gifts suitable for the holiday season.

Why Choose Bullion over other gifts?


Gifting gold is an appealing choice over usual gifts for several reasons. Gold holds its value over time, making it a lasting present. It appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds, thanks to its universal charm. Gold’s timeless beauty ensures your gift remains stylish. It often carries sentimental meaning, symbolizing love or milestones. You can customize gold gifts, adding a personal touch. Additionally, gold can serve as a form of savings.

Overall, gifting gold offers a combination of beauty, sentiment, and financial potential that sets it apart from other gift ideas. Take a look at our exceptional range this season and take advantage of Free UK delivery plus Free fully insured delivery to your door.

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The Role of Gold in a Diversified Investment Portfolio

For customers looking to strengthen their investment portfolios, the allure of gold has become increasingly apparent. Diversification, the strategy of spreading investments across different asset classes, is a cornerstone of prudent investing. Gold, with its unique attributes, has found its place in this strategy for several compelling reasons.

Why Gold is Great for Diversification

Gold has long been revered as a store of value and a hedge against economic uncertainties. In today’s world, it continues to shine as a reliable asset for diversification:

Stability in Volatile Markets

During times of market turbulence, such as economic downturns or financial crises, gold often exhibits an inverse relationship with traditional assets like stocks and bonds. This means that when the stock market experiences volatility and faces declines, gold tends to shine. This quality offers a stabilising effect on an investment portfolio, helping to mitigate losses during periods of economic uncertainty.

Inflation Hedge

Gold has a unique ability to serve as a hedge against inflation. When paper currencies lose their value due to rising inflation rates, the purchasing power of individuals can erode significantly. However, gold tends to retain its value over time. As a tangible and finite resource, it maintains its intrinsic worth, making it a valuable hedge against the erosive effects of inflation. This characteristic is particularly attractive to investors seeking to safeguard their wealth.

Portfolio Protection

Gold can be likened to an insurance policy within an investment portfolio. It provides a safeguard that comes into play when other assets within the portfolio may falter. In times of economic crisis, political instability, or unforeseen events, gold’s value tends to rise, helping to preserve and protect the overall wealth of the investor. This protective quality makes it an invaluable asset for those looking to ensure the stability of their portfolios.

Low Correlation

One of gold’s most significant advantages in portfolio diversification is its low correlation with traditional assets like stocks and bonds. Correlation measures how assets move in relation to one another. Gold’s low correlation means that its price movements are often independent of those in the stock and bond markets. This independence reduces the overall risk of the portfolio since it is less susceptible to being dragged down by the simultaneous underperformance of all assets, promoting diversification and risk reduction.

Global Recognition

Gold enjoys universal recognition and acceptance as a valuable asset. Its liquidity, meaning it can be easily bought or sold, makes it a convenient store of wealth. Regardless of where you are in the world, gold is readily convertible to cash, providing investors with flexibility and access to funds when needed. This global recognition and ease of liquidity contribute to gold’s appeal as an essential component of a diversified investment portfolio.

Conclusion:

By incorporating these aspects into your investment strategy, you can enhance the stability and potential for growth within your portfolio, thereby bolstering your overall financial security. Gold’s unique attributes, including its stability during market turbulence, inflation-hedging capabilities, portfolio protection, low correlation with traditional assets, and global recognition, make it a compelling choice for investors seeking to diversify and strengthen their portfolios.

Investing in gold with J. Blundell & Sons is a smart choice that revolves around our trusted brand. With a rich history of reliability and expertise, we are your go-to partner for gold investments. Our commitment to transparency, competitive pricing, and security ensures your investments are in safe hands. We provide a hassle-free and convenient experience, backed by a strong reputation and dedicated customer support. When you choose J. Blundell & Sons, you choose a brand that values your trust and is dedicated to helping you make the most of your gold investments.

Learn more and explore the Gold and Silver bars and coins we have available today.

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The Importance of LBMA Accreditation and Buying 24k Gold Bars

24k gold bars and gold coins from LBMA accredited refiner

When it comes to investing in precious metals, the quality and authenticity of the product are critical. This is where the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) comes into play. In this guide, we’ll delve into the importance of LBMA accreditation and why you should consider buying 24k gold bars from LBMA accredited refiners.

Understanding the LBMA and Its Importance

The LBMA is a highly respected institution in the precious metals market. Membership with the LBMA provides credibility and recognition in the global market, meaning that the refiner meets the high standards set by the LBMA.

Why Buy from LBMA Approved Refiners

Purchasing gold bars from LBMA approved refiners comes with several advantages. They adhere to strict quality and ethical standards, ensuring that the precious metals produced are of high quality and have been sourced responsibly. This reduces the risk of buying counterfeit or substandard products. Regular audits of LBMA approved refiners provide another layer of assurance for buyers.

Different Membership Types with LBMA

The LBMA has different membership types, each with its own set of obligations and requirements. Here’s a quick overview:

Membership TypeDescriptionVoting RightsParticipation in LBMA Activities
Market Making MembersObliged to make markets in either gold or silver, or both.YesCan nominate individuals to serve on the Board.
Full MembersEngaged in activities closely related to the London bullion market but are not market makers.YesCan participate in LBMA committees and working groups.
Associate MembersEngaged in activities related to the London bullion market but do not qualify for Full Membership.NoCan participate in LBMA committees and working groups.
Affiliate MembersNot closely engaged in the London bullion market but have an interest in the market.NoLimited participation in LBMA activities.

All members have the right to attend general meetings, with varying levels of participation in LBMA activities.

LBMA’s Responsible Sourcing Programme

The LBMA’s Responsible Sourcing Programme ensures the continuous improvement of responsible sourcing business practices. It reassures clients that all of the metal sourced from LBMA Good Delivery Refiners is free from threat financing. The programme focuses on:

  • Value Chain Accountability: Building the awareness, trust, and mutual confidence of stakeholders in the precious metals value chain to increase accountability and enhance collaboration.
  • Advancing Standards: Advancing responsible sourcing standards and business practices to strengthen refiners’ risk assessment practices and provide more focus on progressive risk mitigation.
  • Audit Programme: Strengthening the robustness of Step 4 of the Responsible Sourcing Programme to improve confidence in the assurance process.
  • Transparency: Enhancing disclosure against Step 5 of the Responsible Sourcing Programme to improve the transparency of the precious metals supply chain.
  • Artisanal Small-Scale Mining (ASM): Encouraging and facilitating responsible engagement by refiners in the precious metal supply chains of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining.

Choosing the Right 24k Gold Bars for Investment

When it comes to choosing the best gold bars to buy for investment, consider the purity of the gold. 24k gold bars are the purest form of gold you can buy. They are a great investment option as they hold intrinsic value and are highly liquid. When purchasing, look for LBMA accredited refiners to ensure the quality and authenticity of the gold bars.

In conclusion, buying gold and silver bars from LBMA accredited refiners is a smart move for any investor. It ensures the quality of your investment and provides peace of mind knowing that your precious metals have been sourced responsibly. At JBlundells, we only sell gold and silver bullion from full members with LBMA accreditation, such as the Royal Mint and Metalor. Remember, understanding the importance of LBMA accreditation is key to making informed investment decisions.

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What to Look for When Buying Gold and Silver Bars in UK

Gold and silver bars nestled in a bird's nest, symbolizing the safe and secure investment in precious metals.

Introduction

Investing in gold and silver bars is a time-honoured method of preserving wealth. This article provides a detailed guide on what to look for when buying these precious metals in the UK.

Why Buy Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars nestled in a bird's nest, symbolizing the safe and secure investment in precious metals.
Secure Your Wealth: Investing in Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars are tangible assets that hold intrinsic value. They offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, making them a popular choice for investors. Investors looking to enjoy the touch, feel, and security of owning gold may wish to buy gold bars instead of intangible investments such as gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In the current climate of market uncertainty and high inflation, buying gold and silver bars can be a strategic move. These tangible assets offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, providing a safe haven for investors. As gold and silver prices often move contrary to stock market trends, investing in these precious metals can add stability and diversification to your portfolio.

Why Buy Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars are tangible assets with intrinsic value. They hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. Investors often buy gold bars over intangible investments like gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

What to Look for When Buying Gold Bars

Consider factors like purity, weight, brand, and price when buying gold bars. The London Bullion Market sets the gold price twice a day. Look for gold bars with full LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) accreditation. Ideally, gold bars should have at least 99.9% purity.

J Blundell and Sons, a reputable dealer, sells LBMA bars at 99.99% purity. All their gold bars have a unique serial number and certification.

What to Look for When Buying Silver Bars

When buying silver bars, consider the purity, weight, brand, and price. Look for a unique serial number on the bar. J Blundell and Sons sells Metalor bars, known for their purity worldwide.

Understanding Pricing

Understanding gold and silver bar pricing ensures you’re getting a fair price. The price does fluctuates with demand however the spot price determines the market price per ounce.

Where to Buy Gold and Silver Bars

You can buy physical gold and silver in bullions, coins or jewellery through an online or local metal dealer, collector or bank. Consider the pros and cons of buying online vs. in-person. At Jblundells we offer both online buying of bullion and in store buying.

Avoiding Scams

Avoid scams when buying gold and silver bars. Review websites like the Better Business Bureau and Ripoff Report to learn about a gold seller’s reputation. Always verify the authenticity of the seller and the gold bars before purchasing. We would strongly advise not buying from any individual or unregistered business over social media or cold marketing emails.

Conclusion

Investing in gold and silver bars can be a sound decision during economic uncertainty. However, do your research and understand the intricacies of buying these precious metals. Consider factors like purity, weight, provenance, and storage to make an informed decision.

References

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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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Do I have to pay Capital Gains Tax on Gold in the UK ?

Gold is considered a “tax-free” investment in the United Kingdom. This means you don’t have to pay capital gains tax (CGT) on any profits you make from buying and selling Gold. There are some exceptions to this rule, which we will discuss in more detail below. 

When CGT is Applicable 

There are two main situations when CGT becomes applicable to gold investments in the UK. The first is when you sell gold coins that are considered to be “collectable.” These coins are worth more than their intrinsic value because of their rarity, condition, or history. For example, some old gold coins may be considered collectable because of their age or because they were once used as currency. 

The second situation when CGT may be applicable is if you use your Gold as collateral for a loan. If you default on the loan and the lender sells your gold to recoup their losses, any profits they make from the sale will be subject to CGT. 

Capital Gains Tax is exempt on all British legal currency, including Gold Sovereigns and Gold Britannia coins. 

How Much CGT Do I Pay? 

The amount of CGT you pay depends on your income tax bracket. You can work out your Capital Gains Tax Rates here. In the UK, there are two rates of CGT: 18% and 28%. You will pay 18% CGT on your profits if you are a basic rate taxpayer. You will pay 28% CGT on your profits if you are a higher-rate taxpayer. It’s important to note that CGT is only payable on profits above the annual exempt amount, which is currently £12,300 per year. This means that if your total profits from asset sales do not exceed this amount, you will not have to pay any CGT. 


It is the responsibility of the individual investor to declare any Capital Gains Tax that might be due. In most cases, you will not have to pay capital gains tax on your Gold investments in the UK.

If you are looking to purchase Gold coins and aren’t sure if you will have to pay CGT, call us, and we can advise you further. 

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When is the Best Time to Buy Gold?

Many people view Gold as a safe investment, especially during economic uncertainty. This precious metal has been used as a form of currency for centuries; its value has only increased over time. So, when is the best time to buy Gold?

There are a few things to consider before making any investments, including the current state of the economy and your personal financial goals. In addition, Gold prices can be affected by various factors, including central bank policy, inflation, geopolitical events, and demand from jewellers and other industries. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the events that can impact the price of Gold.

Central Bank Policy 

One of the most important factors that can impact the price of Gold is central bank policy. In recent years, central banks worldwide have increasingly turned to Gold as a reserve asset. This means they are buying more Gold to hold onto their balance sheets. 

The central banks’ demand for Gold affects the supply and demand in the market, which in turn impacts the price. When central banks buy Gold, it takes it off the market and increases the cost. On the other hand, when they sell Gold, it adds to the supply and puts downward pressure on prices. 

Inflation 

Another factor that can impact gold prices is inflation. When inflation goes up, so does the price of Gold because it retains its value better than other assets such as stocks or bonds. So investors turn to assets like Gold that will hold their value better over time.

Geopolitical Events 

Geopolitical events can also have an impact on gold prices. For example, tensions in North Korea or trade disputes between the U.S. and China can cause investors to flock to safe-haven assets like Gold. When there is uncertainty in the markets, investors tend to move their money into assets that are seen as being more stable. 

Covid 19

The pandemic caused Gold prices to increase by more than 25%. In the past, Gold prices had been relatively stable, but the outbreak of Covid-19 led to a sharp increase in demand for the metal. Investment banks and hedge funds bought Gold as a safe haven asset, and central banks also increased their Gold reserves. The increased demand led to a shortage of Gold, and prices continued to rise in the short term. In the long term, however, Gold prices started to return to their pre-pandemic levels as the pandemic subsided and economic activity picked up.

Demand from Jewelers and Other Industries 

Another factor that affects gold prices is demand from jewellers and other industries that use Gold in their products. For example, if there is an increase in demand for wedding rings or cell phones, this will lead to higher prices for Gold because more businesses will be competing for limited supplies of the precious metal. 

In summary, Gold prices are affected by various factors. Therefore, when considering whether or not to invest in Gold, it’s essential to consider all of these factors before making any decisions.

We are always happy to advise you when you are looking to make your first investment. 

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Gold Investment Tips For Beginners

If you are looking to start investing in Gold, there are a few points to consider before you make your first investment. Gold is a brilliant way of preserving wealth from one generation to another as it has a history of holding its wealth. Its natural scarcity and high production cost are the main reasons it holds value. 

Keeping an eye on the price of Gold 

Keeping an eye on the price of Gold is key. Gold prices are continuously updating; when you are looking to buy Gold, keep an eye out on what is happening in the property and stock exchange markets. Generally, if the other markets are underperforming, then the price of Gold will rise, and many companies and investors will use Gold as their insurance backup. 

With Gold, you have to look at it as a long-term investment. Ideally, you will keep your Gold for many years. Therefore, people buy Gold to have a timeless asset and preserve their wealth to protect them during any financial crisis. 

Different types of Gold investments 

Throughout history, Gold ownership has been reserved for the rich, but we at J Blundell & Sons want to make the ownership of precious metals accessible to everyone. 

There are three main options if you are looking to invest in physical Gold. You can either buy Gold bullion, coins or jewellery. 

In one of our recent blogs, how to invest in Gold, we went into detail about each option and why people choose each option. 

How to keep your Gold investments safe 

Our last blog talked about the three main options for keeping your Gold investments safe and secure. You can either store it at home, in a bullion bank vault or in a safe deposit box/consumer bank. Of course, it is always important to take our appropriate insurance to protect your Gold. 

If you are at the start of your Gold investment journey and would like any advice, you can always give us a call or drop by and see us in Hatton Garden, London.

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How to store your Gold securely. 

In our previous blog, we discussed how to invest in Gold and briefly discussed how to store and insure it. This week we will delve a little deeper into the various ways you can store your Gold securely once you have invested in it. 

There are three main ways you can store your Gold. At home, at the bank or in a secure vault. There are pros and cons for each option which we will discuss below. 

Storing Gold at home

Storing your Gold at home is the cheapest option, but it does come with its risks. If you plan to store at home, you need a home storage plan. It is always a good idea to tell one trusted person where you keep your Gold in your house. 

If you are investing in Gold to protect and preserve your family’s wealth, it is a good idea to tell a trusted family member or friend where you are storing your Gold at home. If you become unwell or have a major accident, you have a trusted person who can get your Gold for you. If more than one person knows where your Gold is stored, then the risk of theft is increased, so it is essential to keep the storage place top secret. 

If you are storing your Gold at home, keeping your Gold investment activity secret would be beneficial, so you don’t become a target. Don’t talk to your friends about your investments or post about investing in Gold on social media. If you have kids, avoid talking to them about your Gold investments, as you don’t know who they are talking to. If you own a large home, drive an expensive car and wear valuable jewellery, you could already be a target for thieves, so it would be better to look at other options for storing your Gold securely. 

If you are storing your Gold at home, it’s essential to take out insurance to cover your Gold in case someone did attempt to steal it. 

Storing Gold in a bullion bank vault 

Storing your Gold in a bullion bank vault is a highly secure option for safekeeping. If you have it in a vault, it remains in your full ownership, and you can keep all of your valuables in one place. You also have the flexibility to sell your Gold or have it delivered to you. Most people who look at storing Gold in vaults are owners of large amounts of Gold; most vaults only accept a minimum of 1,000 oz. 

It costs money to store your Gold inside secure vaults, so that is something to bear in mind when looking for storage options. Also, vault storage usually comes with insurance, so always enquire about it when looking for vaults to store your Gold. 

Bullion bank vaults are usually located in major cities, so this option may not work for you if you live outside a major city. 

Storing Gold in a safe deposit box/consumer bank 

Storing your Gold in a safe deposit box at a local bank is one of the most common storage options. This type of storage is convenient and secure; however, you have to take out your insurance, and you can only access your Gold during the bank’s opening hours. 

A bank like Halifax has three options for safe deposit boxes. The smallest option at £200 per year is perfect for jewellery and Gold coins. The second size, at £325 per year, is ideal for collections of valuables or important documents. Finally, the largest size is £475 per year and is used for single large items such as a valuable Gold bullion bar. 

If you want to invest in Gold, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out storage plan to keep your investment safe and secure. As mentioned above, there are three main ways to store your Gold, it will be down to you to determine which option works best for you, but we can always advise you if you have any further questions.