We’ve mentioned the French company that has recently launched a line of gold mini bars in an attempt to increase revenue. Just in time for the year’s gift giving season, CPoR is making the argument that its ingots are an essentially recession proof gift—the ultimate stocking stuffer, in fact.
There are two different principles at work. The first is the fact that gold is a solid investment at the moment. The precious metal is experiencing an amazing market high and many signs point to its continuing growth.
Continued concerns about the economy and the effects of inflation have done much to encourage an investor interest in the metal as a save repository for their funds. This marketing idea is not simply about giving the gift of a solid investment, however. It’s also about the intrinsic allure of the metal itself.
Currently that allure is reflected in the fact that gold bar hoarding is on the rise. According to the World Gold Council it has increased 44% since 2009 and that was an increase of 42% over the numbers from 2008. The fact is people who buy gold can get a deep satisfaction out of having physical access to their purchase. If they take delivery of the precious metal and secure it themselves, then they retain access to it in all its many charms. Just holding or even looking at the bars can be a powerful experience.
The gift of a gold bar for the holidays offers the recipient a chance to have their own powerful moment with the metal. It’s a gift that combines and appeal to the senses, the height of luxury, and sound financial planning in one tidy package.
There’s a new exhibit in town at The Field Museum. This exhibit, arranged by the American Museum of Natural History, New York and the Huston Museum of Natural Science, Chicago, focuses on the sheer allure of this very precious metal. It is also the last stop on the exhibition’s tour.
China is the world’s second largest consumer of gold, so their interest in the metal is understandable. It is also the world’s largest producer of the metal. Still, the country is exhibiting a newly invigorated consumer and investor interest in the metal that is bound to capture some attention.
According to their recent statements, Newcrest Mining Ltd. is working to double gold production at their Bonikro mine on the Ivory Coast.
Despite predictions of the silver market’s strength, prices fell from an impressive 30 year high of $30.68 recently. As of the today, COMEX silver futures have fallen about 7% from their recent peak
In May of this year, the very first gold vending machine in the world was installed and used. That’s right, a vending machine where a customer can purchase gold bars was put into place. It’s located in Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace hotel—a luxurious place that is frequented by billionaires and even royalty—and apparently, it’s been a success. Gold to Go, the company that owns and operates the machine has recently announced that it has plans to consider a US installation.
The industry that centers around recycling gold products like fillings or family jewelry is nothing new in countries like India, where the precious metal is an enduring part of the culture. There, everyone knows where they can buy and sell recycled gold in order to make a little money. In the US, however, things are different.
Until quite recently, the gold market has been experiencing a strong rise in prices. This has been due to factors such as concerns regarding weak currencies and unstable foreign governments. Gold has been viewed as a safe haven investment and has been attracting an increasing share of investment dollars. Despite the recent cool down, many market experts are predicting a continued rise in prices over the long term.
The Perth Mint is operated by Gold Corporation, which is wholly owned by the Government of Western Australia. The Perth Mint currently refines all of the gold mined in Australia, as well as gold from surrounding countries, and scrap gold from Asia. In addition, they refine substantial quantities of silver.