Physical metal
Check authenticity, premiums, storage, insurance and the spread between purchase and resale. Possession avoids some intermediary risks but introduces practical custody risks. A collectible price can include a premium that does not track metal value.
Funds and mining shares
A gold-related fund may hold metal, derivatives or shares; read its disclosure to know which. A mining share is an interest in a business, with operating, financing and management risks as well as commodity exposure. Neither is the same as a bar in your possession.
Tokens and platforms
A token described as gold-backed still depends on issuer rights, custody, audits and redemption rules. Verify what redemption requires, where it happens and what fees apply. Marketing language alone does not establish a legal claim to specific metal.
Make a decision from the documents
Compare costs, liquidity, custody and concentration before considering performance. Use current issuer documents and the FMA’s investing guidance. No ranking, recommended allocation or live return is claimed here.
Try this before the next step.
List one example of each product type and identify its controlling disclosure document. Record what it owns, what you own, and how you exit.
Sources & checks
These sources support the factual background. Exercises and buying checklists are Paystreak editorial suggestions, not reported recoveries, product tests or personal financial advice. Check live rules and notices before acting.