A practical guide to precious metals.

Compare the characteristics, common formats and custody considerations of gold, silver, platinum and palladium.

A globally recognised store of value with deep professional-market liquidity.

Available formats

Coins · Minted bars · Cast bars

Investment gold may receive specific UK VAT treatment.

A precious and industrial metal often selected for portfolio diversification.

Available formats

Coins · Tubes · Cast bars

VAT and storage economics require careful consideration.

A scarce precious metal with investment and industrial demand characteristics.

Available formats

Coins · Minted bars · Cast bars

Product availability and applicable VAT should be confirmed.

A specialist precious metal primarily influenced by industrial demand.

Available formats

Minted bars · Professional bars

Liquidity, spreads and custody eligibility may vary.

Before choosing a metal

The right format depends on more than the metal itself. Consider how the holding will be owned, stored and eventually transferred.

Long-term wealth preservation, diversification, collection or institutional reserves.

Coins offer flexibility; larger bars may provide lower relative premiums and professional-market liquidity.

VAT and Capital Gains Tax treatment can differ by metal, product and client circumstances.

Market depth, dealer spreads and the cost of converting or delivering the holding vary.

Value density, volume, insurance and handling requirements affect custody economics.

Consider the size and format you may eventually wish to sell, transfer or take physically.

Our team can explain custody requirements and available options without providing investment advice.