Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to our most common questions below.
Commissions & Service
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Is GoldRefuge's 0.50% brokerage fee worth it? +
Yes. The 0.50% brokerage fee is fully justified, as it gives you immediate access to:
– A reliable and verified supplier in the country of your choice.
– A real, up-to-date quote with prices between 2% and 5% below the market average.
– Highly liquid physical investment gold (LBMA bars and bullion coins).
What’s more, this fee will be amortized in less than a week thanks to the appreciation of gold itself. For example, in 2024, the price of gold increased by 24%.
What’s the minimum service fee I have to pay? +
Our flat service fee is €25 (covers budgets from €500 to approx €5,000). For higher investment amounts, the fee is only 0.50% of the amount.
Is the commission deducted from the purchase amount? +
No, the commission is paid separately (for example, if the purchase amount is €20,000, the commission would be €100), and it gives access to a real, official quote that allows you to proceed with the secure purchase of the gold.
What if I don't want to pay the commission? +
You can view a sample quote without obligation, but you won’t be able to access a real, official offer or reserve your order with a specific store without paying the 0.50% commission.
Does paying the commission guarantee that my gold will be delivered? +
Yes, once the commission is paid, you will receive the official quote with all the details of the selling store. You can then place the order directly with them according to their delivery or custody terms.
How much should I invest in gold? +
It depends on your financial profile. A recommended investment is between 5% and 15% of total assets for protection and diversification.
How is the price of gold calculated? +
It is based on the international “spot price” per gram or ounce, to which a premium is added depending on the product (bar or coin).
What is the gold premium and why is it paid? +
It is the premium applied to the spot value of gold due to manufacturing, distribution, insurance costs, and the seller’s margin.
The “normal” premium when purchasing physical gold varies but can range from 1.5% to 8% of the spot gold price, depending on the product type (bars versus coins), weight, purchase volume, and supply and demand conditions. The premium is usually higher for smaller, collectible items like coins.
Why does investment gold cost more than the spot price? +
Because of the premium, which covers logistics and production costs, in addition to the dealer’s profit.
How much has the price of gold risen in recent years? +
It has risen on average between 6% and 10% annually over the last decade. In 2024, it increased by 24%.
Is investment gold profitable? +
Yes, especially in the long term and as a hedge against crises, inflation, and currency devaluation.
How profitable is gold in 2025? +
Gold has appreciated 49% in the first 9 months of 2025.
What advantages does buying gold with a reliable intermediary have? +
Access to better prices, expert advice, a selection of high-quality products, and guaranteed authenticity.
Why can paying a commission give me more security and a better price? +
Because it allows me to access reliable stores with better conditions, verified products, and personalized service. The commission is usually quickly amortized by the appreciation of gold.
What happens if the gold market drops after I make the purchase? +
Like any asset, the price of gold can fluctuate over time. However, physical gold is considered a long-term store of value, not a short-term speculation. Short-term drops are usually temporary and often followed by recoveries, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Your gold remains a tangible asset with intrinsic value, fully owned by you and always liquid if you decide to sell.
Security & Authenticity
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Why should I trust GoldRefuge.com? +
GoldRefuge.com does not sell gold directly; we act as an impartial intermediary, connecting you with the best certified and verified stores in each country. We only work with highly liquid products (LBMA bars and recognized bullion and historical coins).
Is it safe to invest in physical gold? +
Yes, as long as it’s purchased from reputable sources and stored properly. Gold is a tangible asset with intrinsic value, accepted worldwide.
Is the store they provide secure? +
We only work with reputable stores with legal licenses, certified products, and a proven track record in their country. All offer insured shipping or vault storage options.
Where can I buy physical gold safely? +
From official dealers, recognized mints, or through reliable intermediary platforms like GoldRefuge.com.
What should I check in a seller before buying? +
They should be authorized, have good references, publish transparent prices, offer certificates of authenticity, and have clear buying and selling policies.
Where do I store physical gold once I've purchased it? +
At home (in a safe or hidden somewhere), in bank safe deposit boxes, or in certified private vaults.
Is it better to store gold at home, in a safe deposit box, or in a vault? +
Private vaults are safer and offer insurance. At home or in a bank can be convenient, but with more risks.
Can I store gold in another country without physically visiting? +
Yes, many companies offer international safekeeping without the need to travel.
Is it safe and legal to store gold in foreign vaults? +
Yes, if you contract with regulated companies and receive a certificate of ownership.
How to avoid buying fake gold? +
Buy only from reputable stores, check certificates, verify seals, and opt for encapsulated or sealed products. This is one of the guarantees you get when purchasing with GoldRefuge support.
What authenticity measures must gold products meet to buy safely? +
Manufacturer’s certificates, holograms, unique numbering, engraved purity, and original packaging.
How exactly do you verify the accreditation of the dealer? +
Every store or dealer we work with is carefully verified before any transaction. We confirm their official business registration, professional reputation, and compliance with precious metal trading regulations. In addition, we check that their gold products come from LBMA-accredited refineries or other internationally recognized sources. Only dealers that meet strict standards of authenticity, transparency, and reliability are approved to work with us.
How is my data protected and is my transaction secure? +
Gold Refuge acts solely as an intermediary and does not handle your payment or store your financial details. All transactions are completed directly with the selected gold store through their secure payment systems. Your personal data is encrypted and used only to connect you with verified, reputable gold dealers — ensuring a safe and transparent process from start to finish.
What happens if the store or dealer goes bankrupt? +
Gold Refuge only works with established, verified dealers that meet strict financial and operational standards. Because your payment is made directly to the gold store — never to Gold Refuge — ownership of the gold is transferred to you immediately upon purchase. This means your investment remains legally yours, even if the dealer later faces financial difficulties.
Products & Liquidity
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Which is easier to resell: bars or coins? +
Coins are generally easier to resell due to their global recognition and lower unit weight. Bars are ideal for larger investments, but their sale may be less immediate.
What is the "spot price"? +
It is the international reference price for gold in real time. It is traded on markets such as London or New York.
The “spot price” of gold is typically calculated in troy ounces, which is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals internationally. One troy ounce is equivalent to 31.1035 grams.
What purity should investment gold have? +
It must be at least 995 thousandths (99.5%). In practice, most bullion bars and coins are 999.9. At GoldRefuge.com, we only deal with stores that offer 999.9 (24-karat) gold.
What types of products are included in the quote? +
Only high-liquidity products: LBMA bars (1 oz, 50 g, 100 g) and internationally renowned bullion coins such as the Krugerrand, American Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, Britannia, Kangaroo, or Panda. Also, historical (numismatic) coins from before 1950, such as the 20 French Francs “Napoleon,” the 20 Swiss Francs “Vreneli,” the British Sovereign “Gold Sovereign,” or the 20 US Dollars “Double Eagle,” are eligible. Because they weigh less, they are highly liquid and can be very useful if you need to barter.
What is "investment gold" and how does it differ from jewelry gold? +
Investment gold is gold in the form of high-purity ingots or coins (minimum 995 thousandths) purchased for savings or investment purposes. Unlike jewelry gold, it has no added value due to design or branding and is marketed according to its weight and purity.
Why is buying jewelry not recommended as an investment? +
Because they often command a high premium due to their design, brand, or workmanship, which is not recouped upon sale. Furthermore, their purity is lower (usually 18k or 750 thousandths), making it difficult to resell them at a fair gold price.
Which type of physical gold is better: bars or coins? +
It depends on the investor’s profile. Coins offer greater flexibility and liquidity, while bullion bars allow for larger quantities to be purchased at lower premiums.
What is the standard purity accepted on the market? +
For investment gold: 995 thousandths and higher. Newer coins are usually 999.9 thousandths.
What is the actual liquidity of physical gold? +
High, especially if they are internationally recognized products. You can sell them almost anywhere in the world.
Which bullion brands are the most recognized? +
PAMP, Valcambi, Argor-Heraeus, Metalor, Umicore, C. Hafner, among others, are LBMA Good Delivery.
What does it mean for a bullion to be "LBMA Good Delivery"? +
It is approved by the London Bullion Market Association and meets purity, weight, and traceability standards.
Which gold coins are most recognized and easy to resell? +
The Krugerrand, American Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, Britannia, Kangaroo, and Panda coins. Also, historical (numismatic) coins from before 1950, such as the 20 French Franc “Napoleon,” the 20 Swiss Franc “Vreneli,” the British Sovereign “Gold Sovereign,” or the 20 US Dollar “Double Eagle,” among others.
Which bullion coins are the most recommended? +
The most globally recognized: Krugerrand, American Gold Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, and Britannia.
Taxes & Resale
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Can I resell the gold in the future? +
Yes, one of the benefits of our supplier network is that they accept gold buybacks in the future, with transparency and competitive prices.
What legal requirements exist depending on the country of purchase? +
They vary by country: they may include KYC (Know Your Customer), AML (Anti-Money Laundering), and the provision of identity documents.
Do I have to pay taxes when buying or selling gold? +
It depends on the country. In many European countries, investment gold is exempt from VAT, but there may be capital gains taxes.
Does VAT apply to gold? +
In most countries, investment gold is exempt from VAT if it meets purity and legal form requirements, unlike gold jewelry, which is generally subject to this tax.
What happens to any profits from investing in gold? +
In some countries, capital gains from selling gold at a profit must be taxed.
What happens if I want to sell my gold in the future? +
You can resell it through the same store, exchange offices, banks, or specialized buyback platforms.
Where do I sell the gold when I need it? +
In specialized stores, recognized distributors, or the same company where you bought it.
Who will buy the gold when I want to sell it? +
Any reliable entity in the sector: jewelry stores, certified dealers, banks, or specialized stores.
How is the gold sale price set? +
Based on the spot price at that time less a small buyback fee, between 2% and 5%.
Can I easily sell gold if I need quick cash? +
Yes, if you have standard (LBMA) coins or bars, you can do so even on the same day in some stores.
Process
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Can I buy gold in any country? +
Yes, as long as you comply with the local regulations of the country where you purchase.
What documents do I need to buy physical gold? +
It depends on the country. Typically, a passport or ID card, and sometimes KYC forms. Proof of residency is required in some countries.
Is KYC (Know Your Customer) mandatory? +
No, KYC is not a mandatory global legal requirement for the purchase of physical gold worldwide, but it is required in most European countries and in the US and some other countries, especially for significant transactions or those made through financial institutions, to prevent money laundering.
Do they require a passport to buy gold? +
It depends on the country, but it’s common, especially for purchases over €10,000 or its equivalent.
How long will it take to get the gold? +
What documents do I get after purchase for resale or tax purposes? +
Yes. The 0.50% brokerage fee is fully justified, as it gives you immediate access to:
– A reliable and verified supplier in the country of your choice.
– A real, up-to-date quote with prices between 2% and 5% below the market average.
– Highly liquid physical investment gold (LBMA bars and bullion coins).
What’s more, this fee will be amortized in less than a week thanks to the appreciation of gold itself. For example, in 2024, the price of gold increased by 24%.
GoldRefuge.com does not sell gold directly; we act as an impartial intermediary, connecting you with the best certified and verified stores in each country. We only work with highly liquid products (LBMA bars and recognized bullion and historical coins).
Coins are generally easier to resell due to their global recognition and lower unit weight. Bars are ideal for larger investments, but their sale may be less immediate.
No, the commission is paid separately (for example, if the purchase amount is €20,000, the commission would be €100), and it gives access to a real, official quote that allows you to proceed with the secure purchase of the gold.
It is the international reference price for gold in real time. It is traded on markets such as London or New York.
The “spot price” of gold is typically calculated in troy ounces, which is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals internationally. One troy ounce is equivalent to 31.1035 grams.
It must be at least 995 thousandths (99.5%). In practice, most bullion bars and coins are 999.9. At GoldRefuge.com, we only deal with stores that offer 999.9 (24-karat) gold.
You can view a sample quote without obligation, but you won’t be able to access a real, official offer or reserve your order with a specific store without paying the 0.50% commission.
Yes, as long as it’s purchased from reputable sources and stored properly. Gold is a tangible asset with intrinsic value, accepted worldwide.
Yes, once the commission is paid, you will receive the official quote with all the details of the selling store. You can then place the order directly with them according to their delivery or custody terms.
We only work with reputable stores with legal licenses, certified products, and a proven track record in their country. All offer insured shipping or vault storage options.
Only high-liquidity products: LBMA bars (1 oz, 50 g, 100 g) and internationally renowned bullion coins such as the Krugerrand, American Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, Britannia, Kangaroo, or Panda. Also, historical (numismatic) coins from before 1950, such as the 20 French Francs “Napoleon,” the 20 Swiss Francs “Vreneli,” the British Sovereign “Gold Sovereign,” or the 20 US Dollars “Double Eagle,” are eligible. Because they weigh less, they are highly liquid and can be very useful if you need to barter.
Yes, one of the benefits of our supplier network is that they accept gold buybacks in the future, with transparency and competitive prices.
Investment gold is gold in the form of high-purity ingots or coins (minimum 995 thousandths) purchased for savings or investment purposes. Unlike jewelry gold, it has no added value due to design or branding and is marketed according to its weight and purity.
Because they often command a high premium due to their design, brand, or workmanship, which is not recouped upon sale. Furthermore, their purity is lower (usually 18k or 750 thousandths), making it difficult to resell them at a fair gold price.
It depends on the investor’s profile. Coins offer greater flexibility and liquidity, while bullion bars allow for larger quantities to be purchased at lower premiums.
For investment gold: 995 thousandths and higher. Newer coins are usually 999.9 thousandths.
From official dealers, recognized mints, or through reliable intermediary platforms like GoldRefuge.com.
They should be authorized, have good references, publish transparent prices, offer certificates of authenticity, and have clear buying and selling policies.
It depends on your financial profile. A recommended investment is between 5% and 15% of total assets for protection and diversification.
It is based on the international “spot price” per gram or ounce, to which a premium is added depending on the product (bar or coin).
It is the premium applied to the spot value of gold due to manufacturing, distribution, insurance costs, and the seller’s margin.
The “normal” premium when purchasing physical gold varies but can range from 1.5% to 8% of the spot gold price, depending on the product type (bars versus coins), weight, purchase volume, and supply and demand conditions. The premium is usually higher for smaller, collectible items like coins.
Because of the premium, which covers logistics and production costs, in addition to the dealer’s profit.
It has risen on average between 6% and 10% annually over the last decade. In 2024, it increased by 24%.
Yes, especially in the long term and as a hedge against crises, inflation, and currency devaluation.
Gold has appreciated 49% in the first 9 months of 2025.
Yes, as long as you comply with the local regulations of the country where you purchase.
They vary by country: they may include KYC (Know Your Customer), AML (Anti-Money Laundering), and the provision of identity documents.
It depends on the country. In many European countries, investment gold is exempt from VAT, but there may be capital gains taxes.
In most countries, investment gold is exempt from VAT if it meets purity and legal form requirements, unlike gold jewelry, which is generally subject to this tax.
In some countries, capital gains from selling gold at a profit must be taxed.
It depends on the country. Typically, a passport or ID card, and sometimes KYC forms. Proof of residency is required in some countries.
No, KYC is not a mandatory global legal requirement for the purchase of physical gold worldwide, but it is required in most European countries and in the US and some other countries, especially for significant transactions or those made through financial institutions, to prevent money laundering.
It depends on the country, but it’s common, especially for purchases over €10,000 or its equivalent.
At home (in a safe or hidden somewhere), in bank safe deposit boxes, or in certified private vaults.
Private vaults are safer and offer insurance. At home or in a bank can be convenient, but with more risks.
Yes, many companies offer international safekeeping without the need to travel.
Yes, if you contract with regulated companies and receive a certificate of ownership.
You can resell it through the same store, exchange offices, banks, or specialized buyback platforms.
In specialized stores, recognized distributors, or the same company where you bought it.
Any reliable entity in the sector: jewelry stores, certified dealers, banks, or specialized stores.
Based on the spot price at that time less a small buyback fee, between 2% and 5%.
High, especially if they are internationally recognized products. You can sell them almost anywhere in the world.
Yes, if you have standard (LBMA) coins or bars, you can do so even on the same day in some stores.
PAMP, Valcambi, Argor-Heraeus, Metalor, Umicore, C. Hafner, among others, are LBMA Good Delivery.
It is approved by the London Bullion Market Association and meets purity, weight, and traceability standards.
The Krugerrand, American Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, Britannia, Kangaroo, and Panda coins. Also, historical (numismatic) coins from before 1950, such as the 20 French Franc “Napoleon,” the 20 Swiss Franc “Vreneli,” the British Sovereign “Gold Sovereign,” or the 20 US Dollar “Double Eagle,” among others.
The most globally recognized: Krugerrand, American Gold Eagle, Maple Leaf, Philharmonic, and Britannia.
Buy only from reputable stores, check certificates, verify seals, and opt for encapsulated or sealed products. This is one of the guarantees you get when purchasing with GoldRefuge support.
Manufacturer’s certificates, holograms, unique numbering, engraved purity, and original packaging.
Access to better prices, expert advice, a selection of high-quality products, and guaranteed authenticity.
Because it allows me to access reliable stores with better conditions, verified products, and personalized service. The commission is usually quickly amortized by the appreciation of gold.
Like any asset, the price of gold can fluctuate over time. However, physical gold is considered a long-term store of value, not a short-term speculation. Short-term drops are usually temporary and often followed by recoveries, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Your gold remains a tangible asset with intrinsic value, fully owned by you and always liquid if you decide to sell.
Every store or dealer we work with is carefully verified before any transaction. We confirm their official business registration, professional reputation, and compliance with precious metal trading regulations. In addition, we check that their gold products come from LBMA-accredited refineries or other internationally recognized sources. Only dealers that meet strict standards of authenticity, transparency, and reliability are approved to work with us.
Delivery is as fast as the payment is completed with the selected gold store.
The gold store will provide all standard investment gold documentation, including an invoice showing the weight, purity, and type of product (LBMA Good Delivery bars or bullion coins). These documents serve as proof of ownership and are valid for resale or tax purposes in most jurisdictions.
Gold Refuge acts solely as an intermediary and does not handle your payment or store your financial details. All transactions are completed directly with the selected gold store through their secure payment systems. Your personal data is encrypted and used only to connect you with verified, reputable gold dealers — ensuring a safe and transparent process from start to finish.
Gold Refuge only works with established, verified dealers that meet strict financial and operational standards. Because your payment is made directly to the gold store — never to Gold Refuge — ownership of the gold is transferred to you immediately upon purchase. This means your investment remains legally yours, even if the dealer later faces financial difficulties.