June 21, 2010 -  As the gold market took wing again Friday, June 18, analysts’ eyes began to reflect the sparkle of the precious metal. The New York spot price closed at $1,256.50 after hovering around $1,260 for most of the day. August futures closed at $1,258.30, also a record. Gold is the talk of the financial world right now, with every analyst offering a theory for its rocketing prices.

One possible reason given for gold’s surge was Spain’s successful bond sale. The western European country is in the middle of a sovereign debt crisis. Earlier this week, rumors abounded that a massive bailout was in the works from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), among other institutions. This fear itself fueled gold prices at mid-week, but by the end of the week, anxieties surrounded the worry that the IMF and the European Central Bank (ECB) might have to sell off gold reserves to raise cash. The success of the bond sale alleviated some of that fear, making the specter of a gold market sell-off much less likely.

Another theory is that many emerging economies are buying gold. Iran’s recent announcement that it would sell €45 billion for U.S. dollars and gold adds to speculation that countries like China and India are abandoning their foreign currency reserves in favor of the precious metal. China’s gold holdings are much lower in proportion to its currency holdings than most major economies.

Another encouraging factor for the gold market is that the summer months are the slow season for gold, especially in countries like China, India and Vietnam, which is the world’s highest per capita consumer of gold. The festival and wedding season in India begins in the fall, and gold sales in that country skyrocket around those celebrations. Scott Redler, chief strategic officer for T3Live.com, says, “That’s when you’re going to see the shorts throw in the towel, people add on, and that’s when we’ll get that $1,400, $1,500, $1,600 an ounce.” Hang on, investors — it’s going to be a wild ride.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

June 14, 2010 - As gold prices dropped one percent this week with investors switching funds from gold to stocks, the rock-solid certified gold market has turned a little shaky. For the third day in a row, the euro stealthily increased in value even as industrial commodities gained. At the same time, the Dow Jones index moved up.

Jeff Pritchard, from Altavest, a California broker-dealer, expressed that the standard trend is for people to turn to the stock market when they are risk averse. However, gold seems to be in greater demand when the market is uncertain, he said. The first quarter of the year 2010 saw gold advancing ahead of the equity markets and other investments that were perceived as risky. But post mid-March, the rise of gold prices can be attributed solely to the euro’s decline and the fear of a worsening recession.

On Wednesday last week, the certified gold market saw spot gold dipping from its all-time high to $1,214.65 as U.S. gold futures for August went down $7.70 to $1222.20. Clearly, gold is under a little pressure as the euro advanced $1.21. European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet remarked that he expected the European economy to bounce back slowly.

However, inflation rates in major economies around the world, including India and Brazil, are rising, leading advisers to recommend gold as a hedge. Adrian Day, of Adrian Day’s Global Analyst, when asked about a possible softening of the certified gold market, said, “I always like to focus on the big trend, and the big trend for gold is up. … I definitely think gold is going up by the end of the year.” He goes on to explain that the main reasons people have been buying gold are all still in place, and that the added uncertainty about sovereign markets will only fuel investments in gold.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

June 9, 2010 - In the certified gold market, gold prices continue to soar. The current high is $1,250 an ounce, even as the European euro’s outlook does not appear exciting. The European economy’s recovery looks bleak following UK’s plan to scale down its own government borrowing.

As spot gold prices in the certified gold market touched a high $1,251.20 an ounce, compared to $1,246.45 an ounce at 1137 GMT against $1,238.05 late on Monday, the U.S. gold futures for August delivery stood at $1,254.50. Making hay while the gold shines, this precious metal is clearly taking advantage of the prevalent fear about the euro’s sovereign debt crisis and its impact on the global economy.

Daniel Briesemann, analyst at Commerzbank, opined that the current gold prices are an outcome of the fear that another recession might be around the corner, hence the demand for gold as a safer investment option. "Gold is currently rising in dollars and in euros," he added. "There is a lack of confidence, given the uncoordinated measures against the sovereign debt crisis, which is obviously (affecting) both currencies."

Gold priced in euros also stood at a record 1,050.86 euros an ounce, while gold priced in sterling and Swiss francs also saw a new high at 869.87 pounds an ounce and 1,450.40 francs an ounce. As Hungary faces a deficit, world stocks also took a beating last Friday. The certified gold market is poised to see even more glittery times, thanks to the widespread fear about the European economy. Silver bid at $18.32 an ounce compared to $18.09, with platinum at $1,516.25 an ounce compared to $1,512, and palladium at $429.23 against $430.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

June 4, 2010 - Certified gold market prices remain relatively unchanged after weaker than expected U.S. employment data showed fewer workers were hired in May than forecast. Support in gold prices is in part due to increased fears the continuing bank and credit problems in Europe may be spreading to countries outside the European Union.

US stocks are sharply down this morning on both the employment data and rumors of more debt trouble in Europe. A corresponding firming in gold prices shows the flight to safety in gold. Analyst Wu Zheng, from China-based Soochow Futures Co. stated, “The market knows the Europe debt crisis isn’t going away anytime soon, so gold’s safe-haven status is going to keep prices supported.”

Zheng added, “After the very quick ascent to nearly $1,250, and without signs of the situation worsening, gold will probably consolidate around current levels.” If the situation in Europe worsens, the certified gold market could see significant buying pressure as its status as a safe harbor continues.

Overall, this week saw a mild drop in the certified gold market. Senior vice president, Afshin Nabavi, of MKS Finance SA in Geneva said, “Gold was pretty much on a one-way street, and it is only natural that we see a bit of a correction.” His opinion is, “In the medium to long term, this may be an opportunity to buy into dips.”

Mid-day Friday, gold prices hovered near the psychologically important 1200 level. Technically, prices remain in a solid uptrend with downside support recently seen in the 1160-80 range. Moderate upside resistance was experienced at the 1230 level earlier this week

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

In all, the gold market rose 3% in May, though it remains $28.10 (2.26%) below its all-time record high registered earlier in the month, and $11.10 (0.9%) off its first-quarter high of $1226.10. The rise in gold bucks an otherwise downward trend for other metals.

That the gold market received a boost from the gloomy news out of Spain reflects the prevailing wisdom regarding the metal: that it is an especially trustworthy safe-haven asset and hedge against inflation during periods of market turmoil and systemic economic crisis. This has also fueled the recent rush in Germany toward buying krugerrands, the most popular form of gold coin, in the wake of the massive euro-zone bailout and the inflationary possibilities many investors fear.

Even skeptics of the long-term viability of gold as an investment believe that the market will continue to rise significantly in coming years. Both Brett Arends in the Wall Street Journal and James Mackintosh of the Financial Times noted in recent columns that the “gold rush” may be far from over, and that the recent rally in the gold market could continue for years to come.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Gold finished Tuesday at $1, 203.60 an ounce, a gain of $22.50 (1.9%) from last Thursday’s low of $1,181.10.

Gold’s performance this week is a confident step forward for the metal. Just two weeks ago it made a two-day surge and reached Wednesday its all-time high of $1243.10 an ounce to eclipse the previous all-time high registered on December 3, 2009. Today’s $1,216.10 an ounce is $27.00 (2.2%) lower than the all-time high. It is higher by $112.10 (10.2%) than the decade-ending $1104 and lower by $10.00 (0.8%) than the first quarter record of $1226.10 an ounce.

Eily Ong an investment research manager at the World Gold Council said, “ There has been a recovery despite higher prices. The economic crisis in Europe isn’t going to be resolved in the next month or two. Investors have now strongly moved into gold as somewhere safe to store their money.” Spain has now come under the investor’s radar. Yet another country within the European union to threaten the already fragile financial state. This comes weeks after the Euro-IMF approved loan much awaited by nervous investors who thought it would bring stability to the European markets and currency.

The EU may need to invoke emergency treaty powers under article 122 to halt the contagion, said Julian Callow from Barclays Capital, he also added, “ If not contained, this could result in a ‘Lehman-Style’ tsunami spreading across much of the EU.”

The reality is that we are still in a de-leveraging environment and we don’t know what the full extent of wealth damage will be until the dust settles down.

For more information about alternative investments, call the Certified Gold Exchange at 1-800-300-0715 today.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

May 23 2010 – Gold gained $5.00 dollars an ounce to improve on Friday’s closing price of $1177.00. The rise is yet another sign on how fragile the global economy is in the minds of the investors.

There is a growing anxiety over the financial crisis in the euro-zone, for example Monday May 17, gold was still trading at $1225.00, staying very close to the all-time high of $1226.40 posted on December 3, 2009. And on the second week of May, Gold followed through with a blistering run to set a new all-time high of $1243.10.

The new record eclipsed by $16.70 (1.36%) the previous all-time high of $226.40.

Analysts are of the opinion that gold will continue to rise and are not inclined to hazard a guess when the run will come to an end. As CNN writer Katie Benner puts it: “While there’s plenty of reasons to believe that gold’s dramatic run can’t go on forever, for now it seems a bad time to bet that the rally will soon come to a screeching halt.”

Gold exerts a strong magnetic force on investors during times of economic uncertainty. It is the historical refuge of funds threatened by every sort of economic risk. At present, it is the economic difficulties in Europe that make gold upbeat. And it appears that these difficulties will take more time before they are comfortably solved. Many think that the bailout fund for troubled member-countries of the EU will cause as many problems as it will solve.

An analyst said that “despite the bailout, Greek default is possible, even likely, in the long run.” Aside from Greece, there are Spain, Portugal, Ireland and Italy who are saddled by huge deficit and loans.

So long as these conditions persist, gold will continue its run.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Remember the debacles of 2008 and 2009? IRA funds lost 25% of their value in 2008 and 35% in 2009. Inflation had bled IRA funds of over $3 trillion. Don’t let this happen to your IRA. Losses of this kind can easily be avoided by simply diversifying the areas of investment to include those which are invulnerable to inflation. IRA funds are traditionally invested in stocks, bonds and equities, among others. These are excellent mediums of investment when the economy is healthy. But when the health of the economy is in peril, these investments are among the first to get infected.

The Taxpayers Relief Act passed in 1997 allows certain types of investments for the IRA. Among these is gold, most preferred because of its safe-haven status during bad economic times. Gold is the kind of investment you can rely on when other types of investments in your IRA are in peril. In 2008 and 2009 when IRA funds lost their value 25% and 35% respectively, the price of gold correspondingly increased 300% and 400%. The price of gold started at about $270 an ounce in 2000, steadily rose to $865 in 2008 and $1104.00 in 2009. Funds invested in gold not only protect the IRA but also earn profit for the IRA. The TRA also guarantees tax benefits to gold investments.

Gold allowed as investment in your IRA include certain variants of bullion bars and gold coins Gold bars must have a purity of at least 0.995%. Gold coins must be legal tender with a purity of 0.999%. Only the American Gold Eagle that has a purity of 0.9167% is exempted from this requirement. Numismatic gold items and gold coins with numismatic premiums are not allowed.

Know more about keeping your IRA safe. Get in touch with Certified Gold Exchange (CGE), 1-800-300-0715. One of its experts in gold IRA will be glad to help you. CGE is the largest gold exchange in America. It has a spotless No-Complaint record since its founding in 1992. It has an A+ rating, the highest given by the Better Business Bureau. CGE can help you make your IRA safe.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

May 10, 2010 - Gold soared Friday to new record highs as the Dow dived to record lows.

Gold’s closing $1210.40 Friday was:

- the highest so far in 2010

- the highest since December 3, 2009

- the closest to its all-time high of $1226.10 posted in December 2009.

On the other hand, the Dow ended Friday at 10380.43 points, registered a drop of 139.89 points (1.3%) from the previous day. It first plunged by as much as 1,000 points Thursday below the 10,000 mark before recovering to minimize the loss at 348 points. The drop was:

- a 771.40-point decline in just four days, the lowest close since February 26

- the worst percentage decline since March 2009

- the 628.18 points drop for the week was the steepest since the week of 0ctober 6-10 in 2008

- 7.4% below its April 26 closing high

- lower than when the year began for the first time.

News about the situation in other markets was just as discouraging. Nasdaq went down 54 points (2.3%), said to be its lowest in two months. Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index fell 17.27 points (1.5%).

Markets in Europe and Asia tumbled as well. In France, the CAC was down 4.6%, in London the FTSE was down by 2.6% and the German DAX by 4.6%. In Japan, the Nikkei lost 3.1% and in Hong Kong, Hang Seng lost 1%.

Analysts observed that investors again sought out safer investments in nervous response to the erratic stock prices movement. As usual, these investors turned to gold.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Over the past year, gold prices have been soaring higher and higher, so you’re probably wondering why the sudden stall. Analysts say traders are being cautious until the Fed announces its decision about rates. You’ll also find more and more people selling their scrap gold, and that increase is matching the slightly rising demand from investors. Right now gold investment demand hangs in the balance with these higher scrap gold scales, creating a delicate situation that could go either way the coming weeks.

In Europe, spot gold prices are down about .3 percent, while the euro is also lower due to concerns about the bank bailout package being considered by Greek officials. The dollar remains strong, however, which could mean that spot gold prices will hold steady, according to analysts.

Meanwhile, the bright spot in the gold market right now is gold miner Newmont Mining, which reported more than twice its expected first-quarter profits. Newmont is one of the gold company stocks you’ll want to keep an eye on because it looks like blue skies ahead. Since the first quarter of 2009, gold prices have increased more than 20 percent, giving Newmont $546 million in earnings for the first quarter of 2010, compared to $189 million last year. Stock prices for Newmont have risen from 40 cents per share to $1.11 per share over the past year.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The U.S. dollar's most newly found stability is largely relative due to its' comparison to the struggling euro. The euro's struggles are most largely attributed to Greece's continuing economic complications as well as a generally glum attitude among European consumers during the first quarter of 2010. Apple saw a 90% increase in net income for the most recent quarter due to their explosive smart phone sales, while the boards of organizations like the European Union and the IMF (International Monetary Fund) are meeting this week to determine possible avenues of creating wealth amidst the current worldwide recession.

While the US dollar's recent surge has hindered the growth of gold-based portfolios, the increased fear among American consumers that the greenback will wither significantly before the 2012 elections has spurred a buying frenzy of both certified gold coins and bullion-type products. Technical analysts believe the bullion spot price could experience substantial fluctuation over the course of 2010, due to the back-and-forth struggle between a crumbling dollar and opportunistic gold profit-takers. Current projections are for certified gold coins like the Saints and Liberties to increase 8-12% in 2010, so this week's price reduction could be a great indicator to start increasing holdings once again. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Also left behind were the previous day’s sales of $1156.40 an ounce by $6 and the end-quarter sales of $1126.10 by $36.30.

Certified gold made its run amidst some dramatic developments happening around the world.

There were reports that an agreement on a rescue package had been reached among high finance official of the 16-member European Union in their meeting in Brussels last week. Details of the terms were, however, not revealed.

The Greek rescue news immediately energized the Euro. The Euro gained by 0.8% last Friday on the dollar.

In China, the Commerce Ministry reported a trade deficit in the month of March, the first in six years. The deficit was $7.24 billion down from a surplus of $7.61 billion in February. This development is expected by some sectors to complicate the US-China negotiation on the devaluation of the Yuan. It had been reported that China would use the recent trade deficit as an argument against the devaluation of the Yuan.

At home in the US, stocks were on the rise. The Dow Jones average hit momentarily the 11,000 mark before settling down at 10,997.35 up 0.64%, its highest in 18 months. Nasdaq had 2,454.05, up 0.71%; and S&P 500 also increased to 1,194.37, up ).67%. Some 162,000 new jobs were added last week, but unemployment figures remained at 9.7%. A troubling report spoiled this bright scenario that the city of Los Angeles was now closer to bankruptcy. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The new figure, however, was a repeat of the $1136 posted a day earlier. I t will be recalled that the week before the $1126.10 run, gold was in the vicinity of $1134. At the moment, price fluctuation is frequent as usual and sales figures are hard to nail. It may take a few more days for growth outlines to be more defined.

Hwang Il Doo of KEB Futures Co. in Seoul observed that gold “is taking a breather after a good run” and “will bounce back, though, as an improving economy hoists overall demand for commodities.”

Another analyst attributed the increased strength of the dollar and “profit-taking following the holidays” as to have curbed the continued rise of gold prices. He voiced expectations that the “precious metals would consolidate.”

Analysts are keeping a close watch on both gold and the US dollar which is gathering strength. It had made gains against the Euro for three day, according to a report released yesterday. Gold’s rise is usually curbed by a strong dollar.

Aside from the dollar, other economic factors will come into play to influence gold’s movement. The continuing Greek crisis which has wide- and far-ranging impact. The speculation that the Federal Reserve will allow the current interest rate to remain low. The general improvement of the US economy. The crude oil price that had already risen to a 17-month high and had been predicted to reach as high as $100 a barrel within the year.

Some of these factors favor certified gold’s growth, others do not. Let’s wait and see. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The previous week’s high stayed briefly, however, slid down again closer to the $1100 psychological barrier, triggering doubts on certified gold’s performance to stay up and bringing back memories of the disappointing January slide to $1073.85.

Pronouncements coming in droves from various quarters made last week revealed expectations for gold’s performance this week to be low. Nevertheless, gold’s slight advance may have, at most, put the metal on track momentarily following weeks of pessimism and nervous movements. It was not a grand performance but at least it was positive, may give some room for optimism and draw attention to what’s in store for the week that follows. The slight upward movement may also have given a few impatient investors some slight satisfaction in gold’s performance for the time being.

Following gold’s record performance at the end of 2009, gold’s frantic struggle to get away free from the $1100 psychological barrier is a big let-down to many investors. Gold was expected to pick up where it left off and continue the run.

An industry leader called 2000-2009 as “stage one” of gold’s bull run followed by the entry of “serious investors and more serious money.” Another forecast places gold prices beyond the $1200 level by the middle of 2010. Other investors pointed that after 2009 gold hit the 2010 ground running and expected prices to taper off at $1500 by 2005.

In the meantime, let’s look short-term at next week’s performance. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The volatility in the Gold Exchange and sharp swings in value has been due to currency uncertainty. The euro has fallen due to renewed concerns about the Greek financial situation and disputes as to whether the EU or the IMF will help bail Greece, whose economy is near bankruptcy.

News that the central bank’s demand for Gold was the highest since 1964 will embolden bulls, as there seems to be no indicators that this trend will reverse in the foreseeable future due the sovereign risk. With gold near record highs, having small allocations to gold for diversification purposes are still in favor by Central Banker’s.

Frank Holmes, CEO and CIO of US Global Investors, recommends a 10% allocation in gold that would be divided evenly between bullion and stocks. "There are many compelling factors both from a supply side and then from the demand side that looks like gold will trade higher." Frank says in a recent interview with Tech Talk.

If you would like more information on adding Gold to your portfolio, contact one of our Gold Exchange experts, who will be more than happy to assist you.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The continued economic problems in a number of countries make rising prices for certified gold seem quite possible. England is struggling with rising inflation, now reaching 3.7 percent. Greece, Spain, Ireland and Portugal are all facing problems with sovereign debt. The United States is facing devastating jobs losses with unadjusted unemployment figures being close to 18 percent, a debt to GDP of nearly 100 percent, and the threat of inflation as the US Future Inflation Gauge has shown for nearly a year that devaluation could occur.

While national economies have struggled, the Asian market is becoming a greater potential source for certified gold due to rising incomes. India now has a per capita income of $1,032 and China stands at over $3,000. These two countries are already the largest consumers of gold, including the investment, jewelry and industrial markets. Holmes notes that China is also the largest producer of gold, but doesn’t affect over prices because they are “using it as a reserve currency for themselves.”

Finally Holmes notes that production of certified gold is not meeting worldwide demand. Production in 2008 fell by 10 percent. In addition, the cost of production continues to rise, making gold more expensive to locate and bring to the market.

Holmes is not the only expert with this view of certified gold. Jeffery Nicholls, managing director of American Precious Metals Advisors says, “We remain firm in our conviction that gold prices will touch or surpass $1,500 in 2010 and continue to move higher in subsequent years.”

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Both gold exchanges and the dollar appeared to be reacting to comments by Yi Gang, the head of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange of China when he stated that it is unlikely that bullion will be the country’s main reserve investment. The country has increased its gold by 454 tonnes to its current 1,054 tonnes, still only a fraction of the nearly $2.4 trillion that China has in its currency reserves.

“It’s all about the dollar,” said Leonard Kaplan, the president of Prospector Asset Management. “With the dollar continuing to strengthen, gold doesn’t have a chance. There isn’t enough gold for China to make it its primary reserve. They have to hold dollars.”

Demand has struggled with the strength of the dollar. “These prices are not attractive enough for physical buying,” said Bernard Sin, the head of currency and metals trading at bullion refiner MKS Finance SA in Geneva. “People are looking for a dip to come into the market.” The decline at the gold exchange may be an opportunity to buy, with analysts such as Dennis Gartman, an economist and editor of the Gartman Letter. Gartman has previously advised holding gold in foreign currencies, and now suggests buying gold denominated in dollars as well.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Greece has announced nearly $6.5 billion of cost-cutting measures and an additional $6.8 billion in long-term bonds in an attempt to begin cutting nearly 4 percent from its 12.7 percent deficit. The government is also looking to win favor with other EU members and avoid credit devaluation by Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s with these actions.

“If the Greek situation calms down, people may not be as interested in owning hard assets,” said Matt Zeman, a metals trader at LaSalle Futures Group in Chicago. As Frank McGhee, the head dealer at Integrated Brokerage Services LLC in Chicago said, “Gold is just listless; it’s running into some resistance.”

Some technical buyers also sold today as prices failed to get over $1,140 at gold exchanges, suggesting strong resistance at that level. “Without forward momentum, people are very quick to jump ship,” Matt Zeman said.

While gold exchanges are seeing some people jumping out, many experts are suggesting that people jump into positions. Dennis Gartman, an economist and editor of the Gartman Letter is recommending clients to start buying gold in US dollars. With solid fundamentals, strong demand and a temporary dip in prices, there is potential profit after the current price reductions subside. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The Labor Department reported that non-farm payroll shed a less-than-expected 36,000 jobs, and the Purchasing Managers Index was released which exceeded the expected 51.0 percent to post a 53.0 percent score, indicating economic growth. As Dan Norcini reported for Mine Set, “Gold put in a decent performance today which coming on a Friday with a jobs report being released is actually encouraging.”

Gold exchanges and traders alike are watching price movements as yesterday’s close was up $1.90 to finish at $1,135.40 per ounce. Technical analysis of resistance points show the next one to be just above $1,150, the last point that stands between current prices and a rally that could retest the $1,200 level.

In addition to the resistance points, other technical indicators suggest increasing prices at the gold exchange. Gold is currently trading above all of the major moving averages, which indicates that it is bullish. In addition, the Relative Strength Index is at 60.47; numbers higher than 40 suggest that gold is oversold and likely to rise in price. With gold holding above the $1,130 mark and August and September futures near $1,200 per ounce, many investors are looking for prices to continue their climb. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The nonfarm payroll report was released by the Labor Department today, showing a lower than expected increase of 36,000 jobs lost in February. While the news was well received at the gold exchanges, the overall unemployment rate still stands at 9.7%. The unemployment rate has been linked by Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke to the current near-zero interest rates.

Bob Lyon, portfolio manager at Smith & Williamson's Global Gold & Resources fund says, “Higher real interest rates would dent gold investment demand, since better returns to cash – over and above growth in the cost of living, as opposed to below it as is the case across Europe and the United States right now – would cut gold's appeal as an inflation hedge.”

"I think gold is starting to march to its own drummer now," says David Morgan, founder of one Internet investment site. "It's very overbought on a short term basis ... [gold might] test the $1,080 level or so ... [But] I think that if we can get over [today's] level and stay there on big volume and stay there three days in a row, [gold exchange prices are] going higher." 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

With concern growing over potentially negative US economic data, the euro climbed to 1.3642; conversely, the US Dollar Index tumbled to 80.40, down 0.344 during the morning trading. "Gold has moved higher but only what you'd expect with movements in euro-dollar." said David Barclay, commodity strategist at Standard Chartered in Hong Kong.

While the news proved to be unreliable, many see the claim of China’s impending purchase of the remaining International Monetary Fund gold as being a significant driver of today’s gold prices. Reported by Moscow-based website Rough & Polished, the story has since been discredited for lack of official sources, but the impact may be real. Barclay notes, "You can see the impact when India bought, prices went on to rally substantially after that. China has added sensitivity over the fact that its got such large dollar holdings."

For investors in certified gold, the news of the euro and China’s potential purchase are still favorable. "The euro has rebounded a bit, so that could be the reason why gold is up now. But even if price goes up (at $1,100 per ounce), it's still not out of the range yet (at $1,130 per ounce)," said one dealer. Investors should consider continued increases in holdings in order to profit from any potential rally. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Two significant events have shaped gold news so far this week. First, the International Monetary Fund announced that efforts were unsuccessful to find a central bank to buy the 191.3 tons of gold that it has, and that it is considering public sales to move this supply. The markets were jolted, although commentator Steven Saville pointed out, “The relative insignificance of the gold sale proposed last week immediately becomes apparent once it is realized that… an average of 675 tons of physical gold changes hands via the London Bullion Market Association every day.”

The second event was a Federal Reserve announcement that it had raised rates on overnight funds that banks are loaned to maintain reserves. This is a little-used fund that little impact, but it was seen to signal upcoming rate hikes in other key rates, and had the effect of pushing gold prices down again.

These items are seen by analysts Franklin Sanders and Patrick Heller as an attempt to influence the gold options market, where 5,000 call contracts were set to expire on Tuesday, potentially impacting 30% of the COMEX inventory. Pushing gold prices below $1,100 per ounce would have left these contracts unfulfilled and worthless. Heller comments, “Such extreme measures worry me that there are some horrendous financial developments about to break. There are so many potential crises waiting to collapse that I cannot discern just which ones they might be.”

The news should be important to investors in certified gold. The COMEX went into a condition known as “backwardation” yesterday, where current spot prices are higher than futures prices. This is extremely rare and suggests that a significant price increase is coming. As Heller states, “The safest way to participate in the continuing long-term bull markets for gold and silver is to buy physical metals, not paper contracts, and avoid trading on margin.” Investors should pay close attention to how recent events are pushing gold prices and consider additional purchases of physical gold. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

After a recent rise in an inconsequential discount rate, investors are concerned that the Fed is preparing to also raise key interest rates to stem mounting inflationary pressure. The excessive stimulus spending by the federal government and the near zero percent lending has forced too much money into the economy; a move that many believe could cause rampant inflation.

In addition to Bernanke’s impending testimony, the Consumer Confidence Index is also signaling a weaker faith by many Americans in the stability of the economy. The February index stood at 46, which represented a 10-month low. With the economy still not showing substantial gains, many people have grown skeptical of recovery prospects.

This news is giving gold a chance to regroup. "I think we are still in a consolidation period right now," says David Morgan, founder of Silver-Investor.com. "I would not get long this market until we're in the $1,180 range or higher." Gold exchange prices have been moving up over the past month as technical indicators and analysts’ predictions suggest the metal is ready for another rally.

Prices may dip this week as the effects of the Bernanke testimony are felt, but a recovery in gold exchange prices is likely to follow. Gold has a reputation as a hedge against inflation, and the current economic environment suggests that inflation is indeed lurking, making gold a potentially strong investment now. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

China is buying gold, but not from the IMF. “We’re not surprised to see that China has not” purchased IMF gold, said George Milling-Stanley, managing director for government affairs of the London-based council. It is said that China’s central bank is “deeply dissatisfied with the performance of its U.S. Treasury holdings and has made clear its intention to diversify, including into gold,” according to Citigroup’s Heap. The prevailing opinion is that China will “buy local gold production” to add to its reserves.

While China is not adding from the IMF reserves, governments are looking to buy. “There has been some ill-informed comment that this move tarnished the notion that governments are adding to reserves,” Milling-Stanley said. “There are a lot of central banks out there that are buying local production in local currency. The IMF would have no interest in that local currency. The IMF is looking for dollars.”

For private investors, this talk of governments looking to buy certified gold is an indication of the larger investment climate. As the worldwide economic crisis continues to negatively impact many countries, gold becomes an increasingly desirable commodity for investors. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Worth nearly $7 billion at today’s spot price of $1,115.60, this government-certified gold could have an affect on the balance between supply and demand, and the price of gold. For this reason the IMF claims that it will be makes sales in phases, in order to eliminate disruptions in the worldwide supply. This sale would be a second phase to the IMF’s liquidation plan, with 200 tons sold to India and 12 tons combined being sold to Sri Lanka and Mauritius in the fourth quarter of 2009.

“We still need to see what happens to the gold price during the second half of the sale before we can conclude that we have additional revenues. The initiation of on-market sales does not preclude further off-market gold sales directly to interested central banks or other official holders,” said Andrew Tweedie, the IMF Fund Director

Although it shouldn’t have a significant impact on most people, investors will want to monitor this situation as it unfolds. Temporary fluctuations in price are likely to occur as sales are announced; meaning that people looking to buy or sell certified gold will want to plan around any movements by the IMF. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

"As the year progressed a rebalancing of gold market fundamentals occurred, ensuring that as investment demand came off from the exceptional levels seen in the first quarter, total demand for the year remained robust thanks to a rebound in jewelry and industrial demand," Shishmanian said in a statement.

Gold demand for jewelry suffered while the world economic crisis raged, but has been showing signs of recovery as consumer confidence returns. Industrial demand for gold has been down for several years but posted an annual gain. Growth in these sectors is important because certified gold prices are driven largely by increasing demand.

Spurred by strong demand in the western markets, in Exchange-traded Funds and in China, gold investment rose in 2009 and continues to rise in the first two months of 2010. "Gold's broad demand and supply drivers provide a unique balance in the face of economic volatility and uncertainty. This ensures gold retains its intrinsic appeal irrespective of the prevailing market conditions," Shishmanian opined.

The continued expectation for 2010 is favorable, as the WGC noted that supply-side conditions would offer price support and the dehedging which occurred late in 2009 is unlikely to continue as certified gold investors look to protect their assets in the face of currency-based problems in a number of countries. Gold has a strong forecast for the months ahead and looks to be a viable investment option for many. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

As the European Union fumbles with a solution to the problems in Athens, economists are starting to return their focus to the US economy, realizing that the American government has created a situation with its budget deficits that is eerily similar with the Greeks. The situation is serious enough that Morgan Stanley analyst Spyros Andreopoulos has said of the United States' long-term budget deficit, "While hard default is inconceivable, soft default through inflation is a clear risk."

Soft default is interpreted as a government using inflation to devalue its currency, thereby making foreign debts less costly. This brings a stark reality to both investors and economists. If the US cuts its annual fiscal deficit from 9% to 5% of the US economy each year from now until 2020, Andreopoulos writes, "Stabilizing the debt at current levels would then require an inflation rate of 9% on average over the next 10 years." Talk of inflation becomes key for certified gold investors.

Inflation has historically been a good time for certified gold investment. As the value of the dollar falls, the value of gold generally rises; this has been seen during the Greek crisis as gold has rebounded strongly against the euro. If inflation is imposed on the US economy, the same thing would likely happen here as well.

Talk of inflation fighting measures has already been started by the Federal Reserve and Congress has mentioned a possible default in the fall if budget concessions are not made. Investors should look to move into certified gold positions with prices still near their cyclic lows and before the talk of a possible soft default hits the mainstream media. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some investors choose to purchase gold bullion directly from dealers who are authorized by the US Mint. These people get gold coins of a guaranteed weight and purity as promised by the US government. The problem with this method is that purchasing there comes with a substantial mark up on the price, sometimes 20 to 30 percent or more. At today’s price of $1,100.00 per ounce, the price for a 2010 American Eagle from the US Mint would be $1,328.00. This increase forces the investor to buy less gold or hold it longer in order to make a profit. In addition, the Mint only offers a limited range of products such as gold and silver American Eagles and other pieces.

Gold exchanges offer better options for most investors. Because exchanges buy in huge volume, they receive discounts on bullion products that they can pass on to customers. The same 2010 American Eagle coin that lists for over $1,300 on the US Mint price grid could cost only a couple of dollars over the spot gold price at an exchange; this means that buyers can potentially save hundreds of dollars per ounce by buying through an exchange. The product selection is generally higher here as well, with American bullion products being sold as well as bullion from countries like Canada, Australia, France, Austria and others. Some exchanges also sell gold bars and possibly even certified coins, providing a number of options to their clients.

Gold exchanges also store and sell bullion for their clients, something that the Mint does not do. While exchanges don’t have the strength of the US government to guarantee their products, they frequently use third-party experts to inspect the quality of their products and seek accreditation by the Better Business Bureau or other customer-related organizations. Investing with a gold exchange can offer a great number of benefits to traders and potentially help them to save money, meaning that what they spend on gold is more valuable. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The focus of ETFs has wandered; some institutional buyers use them to hedge other positions, financial advisers can use them to create quick, custom investment portfolios for clients and some individuals can use them for a 2010 version of day trading. "We're now into the bastardization of ETFs…" says Mitch Tuchman, CEO of MarketRiders.com.

Gold exchange-traded funds have several serious problems, making them dangerous for the average trader, including over-trading, leveraged funds and specialty funds. Over-trading occurs frequently because inexperienced have unlimited access to make trades. Leveraged funds are dangerous; while they offer big gains, they can create big losses when the market goes against them. Specialty funds are also very risky since they focus on low volume commodities or trade techniques that can go wrong quickly. As Burt Greenwald, a Philadelphia-based mutual fund consultant points out about these funds, "They're slicing the baloney thinner and thinner."

While gold exchange-traded funds promise great potential, the best bet for most investors is to trade physical gold. Buying and selling bullion or certified gold coins offers a tangible asset that retains value and is instantly liquid. As Eric Janszen, the founder of itulip.com states, "If you're going to own gold, the nature of the risk you are hedging is such that owning stocks in mining companies and ETFs don't cut it, you need to own the physical stuff.” For most people, buying physical gold is the best way to go.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Much of today’s climb by the dollar is seen as a market opinion that the EU plan for assisting Greece with its monetary crisis would fall short, and that investors will attempt to buy up large quantities of Greek bonds with favorable exchange rates, further damaging the economy. There is also concern that protests this week by Greek labor unions over government plans for cutbacks would disrupt efforts to control spending and further impact economic conditions in the struggling country.

Gold’s fall was as a reaction to both the rising dollar and the announcement from China that banks would be required to hold more money in reserve, limiting the amount of funds available for investment and effectively hindering demand for certified gold and other assets. China’s reserve requirement will increase 50 basis points effective Feb. 25, the central bank announced, as an effort to control inflation after flooding the market with additional funds in order to stimulate the economy.

“Gold is reacting to liquidity constraints implemented by the People’s Bank of China and a further strengthening of the dollar,” stated Bayram Dincer, an analyst at LGT Capital Management in Pfaeffikon, Switzerland.

A poll of 22 traders, investors and analysts taken by Bloomberg showed a largely favorable outlook for next week as 72% predicted certified gold prices would either rise or stay steady, with only 28% expecting a drop. Investors who take new positions today could stand to benefit should prices rise as generally expected. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Gold spot prices closed at $1,071.70 yesterday after profit taking pushed prices down early, only to see them climb during the day. The news played a factor in the early drop as well, as failure by the EU to reach an agreement on the Greek sovereign debt crisis left many waiting for good reports. "Obviously the anticipation is that we're going to get some good news as far as support for Greece is concerned," said Darren Heathcote, head of trading at Investec Australia in Sydney. “If we get a good result from the European Council, then you can expect that gold is going to go higher. We'll certainly be targeting $1,100 again. Once the dust settles, gold will be higher," said Heathcote.

Developments in banking policies from both China and the United States continue to play a role as well. China has already instructed several banks to begin tightening their lending practices, a move that is seen by many as an unspoken concern about impending inflation. Inflation was the topic in the US as well, when the Fed released a written transcript of testimony by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke before the House. His comments supported earlier concerns about possible US inflation in the wake of tremendous government spending and low interest money to invigorate the economy. Bernanke’s calls to possibly end stimulus money and raise interest rates have been especially interesting for those who see a weak dollar.

A weak dollar signals increased appeal for many people in certified gold as an alternative investment. Continued confidence in gold generally creates more activity in the market and can lead to higher prices. Investors who see the continued economic concerns may want to consider taking positions in certified gold in advance of possible price increases. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Rumors have been circulating that the EU has been working toward a plan that will bring Greece out of its sovereign debt crisis. Analysts are speculating that the EU could offer loan guarantees or financial assistance from such countries as Germany or France, although no decisions have been reached and upcoming discussions will be critical.

Investors are also watching the US Federal Reserve as concerns over excessive currency in circulation and inflation have surfaced. Recently testifying before the House of Representatives Financial Services Committee, Ben Bernanke recognized this potential problem when he said, “We are quite confident that we can raise interest rates, reduce the money supply and do that all in a timely way to avoid any inflationary consequences.”

These two issues could have effects on certified gold and the US dollar as they could impact both the strength of the euro and the economic stability in the US. The dollar has made recent gains that many believe are partially the result of a weakening euro, while a return to inflation in the US could have differing effects on the dollar and gold. “Precious metals are perhaps the great beneficiaries of the dollar’s weakness,” Dennis Gartman, a Suffolk, Virginia-based economist and hedge-fund manager said recently. “Gold is, of course, benefiting from the confusion reigning in Europe.”

With current events playing an important part in deciding the strength of the dollar, certified gold investors are watching the stories unfolding in Greece and at the Federal Reserve. As gold positions gain strength, investors should look to add it to their portfolios to reap the benefits of possible gains. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Robert Prechter of the Market Oracle website stated on November 12, 2009, “…subsequently, 640,000 of these tungsten blanks received their gold plating and were shipped to Fort Knox and remain there to this day. I know folks who have copies of the original shipping docs with dates and exact weights of tungsten bars shipped to Fort Knox.” While he does not provide the evidence on his website, it raises the question of how an investor can be protected from purchasing and receiving counterfeit gold.

The answer to that question is to buy certified gold from a reputable exchange. The best exchanges should not only have an impeccable rating with the Better Business Bureau, they should have a long history of providing gold that meets the specifications that they advertise. An exchange should also provide independent experts to absolutely assure the authenticity of your certified gold purchase.

Whether buying rare coins, or new gold bullion bars and coins, an investor should be able to rely on the integrity of the gold exchange to help ensure the quality of the product purchased. This confidence is important and makes certified gold an important investment option. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The general feeling is that many in the investment industry are disappointed by the lack progress in the US economy and financial instability in Europe. These problems keep many from believing that currency-based investments are stable enough to trust. Analysts see gold, currently around $1,065 per ounce as having good support at $1,075 and higher, suggesting that now is the time that many industrial buyers and private investors should think about purchasing the metal.

The idea that gold bullion will reach spot prices of $1,500, $2,000 or higher within the next two years is one that market specialists are beginning to embrace. The specter of inflation is now hanging over the United States and other countries that have poured billions in new money into their economies; inflation generally helps gold prices as it pushes the value of the dollar downward.

Gold demand is increasing among central banks, and this trend may increase rapidly. China and India are both severely underweight in gold reserves, China at 1.5% and India at 4.1%; these totals are in stark contrast to the European countries which average nearly 54% of their total reserves held in gold. These numbers are also confirmed by India’s purchase of 200 tons of gold from the International Monetary Fund and China’s interest in the remaining 203 tons.

With economic instability, strong price support for certified gold and increased demand by national banking systems, analysts have been increasingly more open to the idea of rising gold prices. As traders, governments and institutional buyers all look to increase holdings, private investors would be wise to consider doing the same. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Counterfeiters operate primarily in gold bullion bars and coins. One method of counterfeiting is to sell fake gold bars. This scam has become increasingly prevalent as the perpetrators will take a block of tungsten or other metal and plate it to appear as a gold bar. Tungsten is desirable because it evades detection by many common methods to look for fake gold bars.

Gold plating occurs in coins as well. A counterfeiter will take a smaller coin to use as a slug for a larger gold coin, and then plate it with gold to appear like the original. This has become enough of a problem that companies like PCGS and NGC both implemented initial checks for counterfeit coins into their grading processes and refuse to grade coins that don’t pass.

The best way to avoid such schemes is to purchase gold from certified gold exchanges. These companies are monitored by the Securities and Exchange Commission in the United States and reviewed by the Better Business Bureau. A reputable company will have an impeccable rating and will not risk being shut down by the SEC for fraudulent practices.

Wherever there is a profit to be made, dishonest people will appear. The good news is that for traders of gold bars and bullion coins, certified gold exchanges limit the effectiveness of counterfeiters and other disreputable people.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The recent sell off of gold has been seen by many as a reaction to some short-term technical indicators such as reaching the three-month low and dipping below the 200-day moving average. Such indicators suggest that gold prices may fall a bit lower; this only adds to gold’s appeal because the long-term factors still show gold will likely move higher again. This dichotomy suggests that now is an excellent time to invest in certified gold.

Gold should be a part of everyone’s long-term savings plan. Over the past four decades, it has outperformed real estate, stocks, bank interest and a wide variety of other investments with an increase of over 1,600%. Because it is easy to buy and own, gold can be incorporated into any savings strategy.

One of the best ways to invest in gold is to buy bullion and certified gold coins. Bullion is the standard trading gold which is minted by the United States and a number of other countries. It is a tangible asset that can easily be bought and sold, making it a good option for short-term trading. Certified gold coins, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive; they frequently make steady gains and in the past, have been even more profitable than bullion over the long-term.

By working with a certified gold exchange, gold can be purchased weekly, monthly or in whatever interval is convenient. Gold has been one of the best investments in the past, and its lower prices make it a strong option to consider as a new savings plan today. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

This link between commodity-based and equity-based assets is perceived to be the result of investors acting in fear of a strong recovery by the dollar. During the bull run of the past decade, gold has not reacted nearly as aggressively to positive movement by the dollar. After two months of uncertainty, there is movement in the gold market at the hint of negative news, as witnessed by today’s drop of over $12.00 per ounce in anticipation of US jobs and banking news to be released on Friday.

The question for many traders is whether they should be nervous about certified gold as an investment. The best place to look for a clue would be the actions of futures markets and large fund traders. The futures markets have stayed relatively steady in the last few weeks, with April futures up slightly and December futures moving still higher. ETFs have also been steady, with some funds even increasing holdings of bullion in spite of outflow caused by nervous investors.

For the professionals, certified gold is still a strong investment. Falling prices caused by fear offer the opportunity to purchase addition gold at lower prices, making higher profits in the future possible. Investors should talk with a certified gold exchange and consider investing like the pros, resisting fear and picking up additional gold while lower prices are available.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Most analysts expect gold to climb again this year, some predicting 25% gains or more as a number of countries struggle with their devalued currencies and sluggish economies. Gold has increased in value by almost 300% in the past decade by providing a valuable alternative regardless of the economic conditions

Certified gold is sold as rare coins and bullion, both in bars and coins. It has posted gains in nine consecutive years and investors have used its strength in good times to build wealth and to protect wealth in bad times. As the US dollar Index recently crept upward against weaker currencies, gold prices corrected, preparing it for another potential run.

As the US government continues to prop up its economy with subsidies and handouts, it is introducing an unhealthy amount of new money into the system. While this weakens the position of the US dollar, gold values can rise. Investors, who purchase certified gold coins or bullion while gold spot prices are near the bottom, stand to make substantial gains if prices reach anticipated levels. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

A gold exchange traded fund or GETF, is similar to any other exchange traded fund except that it trades against changes in gold spot price. GETFs are also traded on the major markets such as Zurich, Mumbai, London, Paris and New York.

Worldwide, these funds are based on "physical" holdings that are overseen fund managers. Additionally, Thai gold dealers will be allowed to act as sales agents for the funds, eliminating the traditional brokers from the sales process.

 While most investors globally won’t begin trading GETFs on the Thai market, this new venture does have significance for them. The continued expansion of gold trading shows that the consensus opinion is that gold will continue to be in high demand and to have a strong profit potential. With gold prices hovering near $1,080 per ounce, this market expansion should be an encouraging sign for many who want to add gold to their portfolio.

While GETFs are less risky than futures investing, there is risk involved. This risk makes holding physical gold in the form of bullion or rare coins a better option for many people. Traders should use their own skill for analyzing the market, and then work with a reputable gold exchange to get the bullion and certified rare coins that could appropriately protect and expand one’s portfolio. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Deficit spending will increase borrowing from the private sector to 68 percent of the economy by the end of 2010 and 77 percent of the economy by the end of the decade according to government figures. It is truly hard to imagine how such huge borrowing will not drive the US dollar to even lower levels and gold much higher.

Certified gold has done well in the last decade as the US economy has experienced a series of traumas, including a stock market collapse and deflation of a housing bubble. Investing in certified gold has helped preserve wealth and protect against the steady shrinkage of the US dollar; this is underscored by the fact that the price of gold has quadrupled over the last ten years.

Wealth can be held in various forms: money, property, stocks, and of course, gold. As the government attacks the terrible situation in which the country finds itself, it will look for wealth were it can find it, transfer it to government coffers, and try to rejuvenate the economy. Along the way, fortunes may well be lost as tax rates go up and what amounts to confiscation of wealth takes place.

The situation reminds one of the confiscation of gold in 1933. As such, investors may well be wise to invest part of their wealth in certified rare gold coins as these coins enjoy the legal precedent of not being taken when the government came for everyone’s gold in 1933. Thanks to a swelling deficit, certified gold coins can be a great investment. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

An example of the ongoing instability of Americans banking system follows. There is a North Carolina bank that managed not to delve too heavily into sub prime loans and still has lots of cash. They are busy buying up West Coast banks that collapse. According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), First Citizens (of North Carolina) just acquired First Regional Bank of Los Angeles. The transaction cost the FDIC Insurance Fund $1.86 Billion. Recent bank collapses, including this one, come to $5.53 Billion.

According to the FDIC 180 US banks have collapsed since 2007. The FDIC expects to use up $100 Billion in its Insurance Fund through 2013 in paying depositors because of bank collapses. The agency will be increasing its staff from 7,010 to 8,563 in order to cope with the worst continuing financial crisis since the Great Depression.

On top of the steady decline of the dollar in recent years, even bank accounts denominated in dollars are not secure. This is why many investors buy gold bullion and rare gold coins. These investments tend to hold their value while the currency falls. No one with physical gold needs the FDIC to come and bail them out and neither does the gold exchange where they bought it.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Today the price of gold bullion is just under $1,100 an ounce. It has been trading around $1,100 since correcting after a peak above $1,200 an ounce in early December. Today the spot price of gold dropped and it went right back up to a slightly higher level after news that US GDP growth for the last quarter of 2009 came in nearly a percent higher than expected at 5.7% annualized growth.

Many gold traders believe that gold has a reverse correlation with the US dollar and US economic strength. Thus good news for the economy often leads to a drop in gold prices. However, many traders see a positive correlation between gold and stocks. When stocks respond positively to economic news the price of gold can go up too. Thus gold dropped and came right back based upon the differing views of the economic news.

Another factor in the outlook for gold prices is the continuing economic turmoil in much of the world. Foreign banks are still tightening credit and previously good credit risks are still being downgraded. The interesting part of this is as the dollar has gained against the Euro and other foreign currencies of late, gold has kept up and, at times gained ground as well. The point of this is that it is possible for gold to prosper even if the dollar recovers a little.

Investors might look to a gold exchange for gold bullion investments for the short (one to two years) term as well as for certified rare gold coins for longer term investment. Looking beyond the day by day fluctuations in gold price, denominated in dollars, we see that over time, gold bullion tends to outperform other investments and stay ahead of inflation. Over longer periods of time, certified rare gold coins tend to outperform even gold bullion, giving both strategies potential for anyone who wants to invest in gold. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Although very rare and valuable certified gold coins are bought and sold privately the prices are often unknown. This makes auction results the source of updated pricing on very rare certified gold American coins. The investor can watch for the results of this auction to stay current on pricing in the certified rare gold coin market. The investor can also ask his certified gold exchange for help in evaluating and perhaps bidding on one or more items up for bid in rare coin auctions.

There is currently a lot of speculation as to how high the bidding will go on an 1849 C open wreath $1 gold piece. This coin is one for four known to exist of its kind. The last sale of one of these came in at $690,000 in 2004. The price for the current coin could soar above the 2004 total as prices for many rare coins continue to rise.

The point of watching auctions for most collectors and investors is to see what prices are doing. Gold bullion moves evenly throughout its price range because of continual bidding on the gold exchanges. This is impossible with rare coins which may number 100 or fewer. The best investments in rare gold coins may well be the “sleepers”; rare coins that get overlooked for years and then appreciate greatly in value, usually at auction. Dealing with a reputable certified gold exchange an investor can search out these “bargains” before their prices jump up at auction. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The news just reported the recovery of a gold coin from a Turkish warship that sunk off Japan 120 years ago. The coin is from the glory days of the British Empire. It is an 1856 £1 gold piece and measures 2.2 centimeters in diameter, just under an inch.

The wreck was discovered in 2008 and the recovery effort has brought some 5,800 items to the surface. The archeologist in charge says he expects to find more gold coins as divers continue their search.

In 2003 American gold coins worth over $100 million at the time were brought to the surface from the wreck of the US Republic off the coast of Georgia where she had gone down in a storm in 1865. The US Republic was carrying gold and silver coins to New Orleans as part of the US government’s reconstruction efforts at the end of the Civil War. The boat carried 30,000 gold pieces of which a large number were recovered.

One of the tasks for the salvage crew was to get the coins off the bottom where they were mixed with sand, into containers, and bring them to the surface with minimum damage. Many of the coins being sent were brand new and in excellent condition. With much practice the salvage crew was able to use their deep sea robots to bring back gold and silver coins with minimum damage. Many of these are now certified gold coins for sale both for investment and as collector’s items.

Numismatics and rare coin investors look for opportunities like this to get extremely rare coins in excellent condition. With both NGC and PCGS certifying coins like this, it is very possible that an auction someday soon will feature this 1856 £1 gold piece as a certified gold coin hoping to bring a large bounty from deep within the sea. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) began certifying rare coins in 1986 and 1987 respectively. These companies offer impartial, third party grading of rare coins. Tens of millions of coins have been graded and comprise the certified gold market in rare coins. These companies stand behind their work and promise to compensate investors if there ever were an inaccurately graded coin.

An investor can purchase a certified rare gold coin from a dealer with the assurance that the grade he or she buys at is the grade that the coin will eventually sell at. Near mint state rare gold coins have appreciated over a hundred fold in value between 1970 and the present. Buying a certified gold coin assures the investor that they will profit from the appreciation in the rare gold coin market and not lose because of a change in the coin’s grade on sale.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Although this organization will grade and certify any coin, PCGS earned its reputation by grading US Pre-1933 gold coins. Before PCGS was formed, dealers and exchanges would eye the coin on liquidation. Many times the grade wasn’t consistent with what was purchased, thus the need arose for an impartial third party to set the standards and ensure that investors could liquidate with confidence.

PCGS sets the authenticity, degree of rarity, and state of preservation at the time of certification. Thus a buyer can rest assured that after holding the coin for some years, he or she can sell it for the current price with the exact same degree of rarity and grade at the time of purchase.

PCGS uses the 1 to 70 Sheldon Scale in their certification of gold coins, which means that a MS70 is a perfect coin and 1 is a metal object that probably once was a coin. Investment grade rare gold coins, obviously, are on the higher end of the scale and generally between MS 60 and MS 66.

PCGS does not buy or sell gold coins. They are an impartial grader of coins whose services have helped set an industry standard of accuracy and trust in buying and selling rare gold coins. Their certified gold coins are standardized so that the basis for setting a price is never in question. Dealing with a reputable gold exchange will allow the buyer or seller to know current market prices for certified gold coins sight unseen. 

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Albert Best

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

No one is really sure why the United States chose to mint a three dollar gold piece although the huge supply of gold from the California gold rush may have had something to do with it. The face of the coin features a Lady Liberty with a feathered crown-head dress. It became known as an Indian Head three dollar gold piece. The three dollar gold piece was not especially popular and, as such, the few remaining specimens are often in better (circulated) shape than an investor might expect. Grades as low as 30 are worth from $900 to around $2,000 although an 1854 D in the same state is worth $19,000. The same coin at grade 62 is worth $170,000.

The three other certified Indian Head gold coins come from the changes in gold coin design in 1907 and 1908. The Eagle features a Lady Liberty profile wearing a head dress. The Half Eagle and Quarter Eagle feature a Native American male profile with a head dress. These two gold coins are unique in that the normally raised features are incised into the coin. This was and is still unique in American coins.

A 1911 D, strong D, Indian Head Quarter Eagle will sell for as much as $175,000 at grade 66. A 1909 O, grade 66, Indian Head Half Eagle is priced at a million dollars. The most valuable Indian Head Eagle is the 1920 S which is worth a million and a half at grade 67.

With a unique design and timeless beauty, certified Indian Head gold coins are always attractive to admirers. These coins offer the potential of high profits on some of the most special American coins.

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

PCGS certified gold coins vary in size, weight, condition, age, minting location, and a number of other factors, but quality assurance and reliability is a thread common to all PCGS-graded coins. While other grading agencies’ coins may lack luster when compared to a PCGS coin of the “same” grade, you can always be sure that the information included with your PCGS certified gold coins is guaranteed to be worthwhile. Each PCGS gold coin includes a serial number, bar code, and tamper-proof hologram that wears off is the sonically sealed container is altered in any way. By dealing with PCGS certified gold coins instead of other companies’ offerings, you can assure your liquidity and fair market value when you need to liquidate or even use your coins.

Investors who are most apt to purchase PCGS certified gold coins plan to hold their gold longer than 14 months, and usually more than two years. One benefit of PCGS certified gold coins is that they hold special value to coin collectors, so if a second gold bullion confiscation by our government is a concern for you then you may want to shift funds into non-recallable rarities. If the idea of PCGS certified gold coins is new to you or if you would like more information on the topic, register below or give our friendly specialists a call and have your questions answered efficiently and effectively, and don't forget to check out www.PCGS.com. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Only investors who want government non-confiscatable gold and who plan to hold their gold longer than 14 months should consider certified gold coins like the Indians, the Lady Liberty coins, and the Saint Gaudens coins. If you plan to hold short-term and a second government seizure of the bullion market does not concern you, gold bullion could be a better choice. Over the last eight years, certified Indian Head gold coins like the ones mentioned above have outperformed gold bullion investments on a per-ounce basis nearly three-to-one for investors who held the coins 14 months or more.

Specialty coins could continue to see declines or remain dormant in 2010, according to leading rare coin experts. The investment-range Indian Head coins continue to show strong potential upside, as they have throughout the current recession. Economists believe that gold will continue to move opposite the United States dollar, so if you foresee inflation or the possible collapse of our economy then you may want to think long and hard about a physical gold investment like certified Indian Head gold coins or American Eagle gold bullion coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The most recent Lady Liberty before the 1933 gold confiscation was the Walking Liberty on the Saint Gaudens Double Eagle, and the earliest Lady Liberty gold coins were Half Eagles. On July 31, 1795, the United States Mint produced 744 $5 gold pieces with a bust of Lady Liberty on the obverse and the reverse showing a rather thin eagle standing on an olive branch and clutching a wreath in its beak. Criticism of the weak looking eagle was sufficiently persuasive that the Mint changed the design to a so called heraldic eagle in 1798, although Lady Liberty continued to grace the obverse of the Half Eagle.

Controversy such as that surrounding the so called weakling Half Eagle resulted in a change of design. Ironically, because the Mint used dies until they broke, there were skinny Eagles produced through 1798 and large, heraldic eagles produced in 1795. Today any of these certified Lady Liberty gold coins, especially those from 1798 are extremely valuable.

Over the course of the 19th century, many Lady Liberty gold coins were minted. Although Lady Liberty was always based upon a real female model, the coin was never meant to represent a specific person. It was not until the Lincoln penny in 1909, that an identifiable individual was honored with an American coin.

Because of the unique features of these valuable coins, it is wise to invest only in certified Lady Liberty gold coins in order to assure authenticity, accurate grading, and fair pricing. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

 Certified Saint Gaudens gold coins, especially the design for the 1907 to 1933 Double Eagle, are considered by many to be the most beautiful of American coins. Certified Saint Gaudens gold coins are the 1907 Double Eagle and the 1907 to 1933 Indian Head Eagle.

 Saint Gaudens was Irish born and raised in New York City. After studying in Europe, he returned to the United States and received acclaim for his statues of American Civil War heroes. Then President Teddy Roosevelt asked Saint Gaudens to redesign American coins at the beginning of the 20th century; however, the famous sculptor was ill and only completed work on the Gold Eagle and Double Eagle before he died.

 Because of the gold confiscation of 1933, virtually all of the Saint Gaudens eagles and double eagles in circulation were taken by the United States government and melted down. Thus all of the remaining Saint Gaudens gold coins instantly became rare. Because gold coins in collections were exempted from the confiscation, there are still investment grade certified Saint Gaudens gold coins available for the interested investor.

 The original double eagle design was a high relief version that was changed after only 12,367 were minted in 1907. Circulated versions of these coins typically sell for over $10,000 and uncirculated specimens begin at over half a million dollars.

 Of all the Saint Gaudens’ Indian Head Eagle $10 gold pieces, the 1933 version is extremely rare as apparently most were destroyed before leaving the mint. A few proof versions of this coin were minted from 1907 to 1915.

 For information on potential investments in Saint Gaudens gold coins, it is best to contact an expert in the field such as the Certified Gold Exchange. The company offers expert assistance and possesses a sterling, A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Investors in the United States typically think of gold in terms of dollars. The gold exchange rate with the dollar at the January 8, 2010 pm London Gold Fixing was $1,126.75 to one ounce of gold. The COMEX division of the New York Mercantile Exchange’s spot price for January gold at day’s end on January 8 was $1138.28 for an ounce of gold.

The difference in the two gold exchange rates is that the London Gold Fixing is a twice daily setting of the current price of gold on the London Gold Exchange. A spot price on the COMEX market is the current value of gold per ounce on a futures contract. Because the United States jobs report showed a loss in non-farm payroll, investors believe that the Federal Reserve will not be able to raise interest rates, which historically tends to raise the value of the dollar. Thus investors in gold futures contracts are expecting that gold will go higher versus the dollar due to United States’ economic woes.

Gold does not just trade against the dollar. Gold can be purchased with virtually any currency. The London Gold Fixing is posted with the gold exchange rate for Pound Sterling, Dollars, and Euros. In many ways gold can be considered a currency, subject to the same pressures and opportunities as all world currencies. The difference between gold as a currency and all others is when there is economic chaos, persistent inflation, political unrest, and war, investors sell all currencies and buy gold. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Gold exchanges will do business by telephone, Internet, or even in person. Reputable exchanges deal in certified gold bullion and rare gold coins, thereby setting a benchmark for later pricing and removing the question of just how rare and well preserved a coin will be considered to be on resale.

In dealing with a gold exchange instead of an individual dealer, the buyer or seller has access to the larger market and substantially better liquidity of their gold investments. It is especially important to have a clear idea of how many of a specific rare coin are available on the market and how well they are selling. This is information that a professional gold exchange will have and which an individual dealer will typically need to obtain from the gold exchange. As with all investments, a clear idea of supply and demand is paramount and a company like the Certified Gold Exchange can provide that information and more.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

In dealing with gold and silver investments, the wise choice is to work with a reputable gold and silver exchange and with standardized gold and silver investment products. Professionals in the field of gold and silver investments limit their products to government issued gold or silver bullion coins, PCGS or NGC certified gold or silver rare coins, silver bars produced by Johnson Matthey or Engelhard, and gold bars from Johnson Matthey or Credit Swiss. These are standardized investment products with no late surprises for the serious investor.

If a gold and silver exchange offers other investment products, a wise choice is to do a little comparison shopping with a trusted source such as the Certified Gold Exchange. Investment in gold and silver has been highly profitable during the last few years as the value of the United States dollar has dropped and the worst recession since the Great Depression has descended upon the planet. Investors choose certified gold and silver products because of the insecurity of the stock market, real estate, and even bank accounts as inflation eats away at savings. There is no reason to choose the security of gold and silver only to choose an uncertain source of bullion or uncertified coins.

Professional gold and silver exchanges provide a platform for buying, selling, and trading in independently certified bullion and rare coins. Such investment vehicles provide the opportunity to preserve wealth while other traditional investments, such as stocks fade with the steady devaluation of the United States dollar. The wisest investments in these uncertain economic times may well be those available through a reputable gold and silver exchange. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

If the time comes to sell certified gold coins, then dealing with a reputable gold exchange is all important. The point of owning certified gold coins is that the certification process assures the investor the coins in question are authentic and that the condition of these coins is precisely as stated. In dealing with a trustworthy gold exchange such as Certified Gold Exchange, the investor is assured that the reason for the certification process is respected and that the correct market price for the gold coin is applied to the sale. Prior to certification, it was all too common that when an investor came to sell a rare gold coin that he or she was told that the coin was not really a 65 grade, for example, but a 60 grade. Of course the price for a rare gold coin in less perfect condition can be substantially less and wipe out any gains the investor might have anticipated.

How to sell certified gold coins is to expect professional service, fair pricing, and adherence to the principles of rare coin certification. How to sell certified gold coins is to accept nothing less and to depend on an exchange like the Certified Gold Exchange to help make it happen. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

A reputable gold exchange will have a history of successful dealings with its customers. A trustworthy gold exchange will have an absolutely complaint free report from the Better Business Bureau, demonstrating its commitment to operating on behalf of its clients.

The historic course of gold indicates that it becomes progressively more valuable as national currencies devalue with inflation, periodic economic chaos, and war. When the economy is weak and the dollar less valuable, many inexperienced and disreputable companies present themselves as gold exchanges. These companies may not deal in certified gold coins and may charge exorbitant commissions in order to “cash in” on the increasing number of individuals who wish to purchase gold for economic protection.

Learning how to buy certified gold coins starts with asking the gold exchange for references, their Better Business Bureau report, and proof that they have been in business for more than just a few months. A professional gold exchange has the skill and knowledge to help investors make the most profitable choices in buying certified gold coins at reasonable cost. There are gold exchanges such as Certified Gold Exchange that have been in business for years. Go with an experienced and professional gold exchange for the best results over time. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Certified gold coins are rare. In the United States, there were two instances where gold coins were melted down for bullion. The first was over several years in the early 19th century when the price of gold went up and the bullion in a Gold Eagle was worth more than the face value of the coin. The second was when the United States government confiscated gold in 1933 and melted most of the coins. In each case, the removal of large numbers of coins from circulation made the remaining coins rare.

Rare coins are more valuable than the bullion they contain and more expensive. Depending upon just how rare, they may be harder to find. For the gold investor working on a strict budget, it may be wise to start with small denomination gold bullion coins, such as a ½ ounce or one ounce American Eagle. To the extent that a gold investor wants to keep a reserve of gold against the risk of severe economic chaos, small denomination gold bullion would be more “spendable” in a truly chaotic economic environment.

Remembering the confiscation of 1933, deciding between certified gold coins vs. gold bullion may well be rare coins as the safest means of gold investment if the government decides to confiscate personally held gold again. In 1933, rare coins, which are what constitutes today’s certified gold coins, were spared. Legal precedent may well stand on the side of certified gold coins if the government again comes for people’s gold again. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Prior to certification of gold coins, a person might buy a rare coin believed to be of near-uncirculated quality. After holding the coin for a number of years, the same investor could put the coin up for sale, find a buyer and lose the transaction when the coin is graded as circulated. For an especially rare coin, this difference in grading can mean thousands or even tens of thousand of dollars. Why buy certified coins? The currently used system avoids this sort of personal economic disaster.

Dealing with a reputable professional such as the Certified Gold Exchange is assurance that a rare gold coin is correctly graded and that through the process of certification, its value will always be based upon the same grade it received when purchased. Rare gold coins typically outperform gold bullion over the years. The point of certifying rare gold coins is to make certain of their authenticity, their rarity, and their state of preservation. When investing for the future it makes sense to buy certified gold. It also makes sense to deal with professionals in the field of gold certification

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

It is possible to buy gold bullion directly from the US Mint, but the US Mint is not interested in repurchasing gold bullion coins, whereas the Certified Gold Exchange sells and buys gold. An investor can immediately take advantage of rapid fluctuations in the price of gold using the exchange’s professional trading platform. By the time the US Mint delivers a consignment of gold bullion coins, a market opportunity may have passed.

There are often more attractive investment opportunities in rare gold coins than in gold bullion. The purchase and sale of rare gold coins requires someone connected to the certified rare gold coin market. Doing business through a rare metals and coin dealer allows access to gold products nationally or worldwide, fair pricing, and prompt access to new market opportunities.

A reputable and professional gold exchange is knowledgeable, provides prompt service, and offers fair pricing. A reputable dealer has a history. For example, Certified Gold Exchange has been in business since 1992 and holds an A+, zero complaint rating with the Better Business Bureau. Doing business with the experts makes sense when investing in gold. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Investment in certified gold double eagles is an investment in gold bullion, the rarity of a coin and the state of its preservation. Certification of gold double eagles is crucial to investment value. While it is important to know the precise gold content of a double eagle it is more important that a professional grades the coin to its exact state of preservation.

The coin grading system was developed by Dr. William Shelby and goes from 0 (where one assumes the object once was a coin) to 70 which is a perfect coin. A coin graded at 60 is uncirculated, which looks perfect to the non professional without a magnifying glass. A coin graded at 65 out of a possible 70 may be many thousands of dollars more valuable than one graded at 60 out of 70.

Certified gold double eagles have a standardized value that exceeds and often outpaces the price of gold bullion. For investment grade certified gold double eagles, it is important to seek the advice of trusted experts in the field, such as Certified Gold Exchange for the exact value of investments in certified gold during these trying economic times. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Although it is possible to produce coins with gold plating this is not necessarily a danger in buying gold bullion. In such a case, the weight of the underlying metal per unit of volume will be significantly different that that of gold, making counterfeit gold easily discoverable. The reason for certified gold bullion is to be assured of purity and absolute gold content for it is the gold content that holds the value of gold bullion whether coins or gold bars.

There are many means of verifying gold content and purity of bullion. Basically, finding out the purity and multiplying by the weight will give the gold content. Finding purity is done by a number of means starting with a fire assay where a tiny sample is removed, weighed, melted, the impurities removed, reweighed, and returned to the original bullion. Other techniques include ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry) and x-ray fluorescence.

The certification of the gold content of bullion is best done by professionals with the experience and expertise to produce standardized, reproducible results. Obtaining certified gold bullion through reputable agents such as Certified Gold Exchange assures the buyer that the gold content and value of the bullion is precisely what it is supposed to be.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

In the 1950’s and early 1960’s, many Germans living under communism “voted with their feet.” They walked across the border between Russian-occupied East Berlin to West Berlin with only the clothes on their backs. The situation became so embarrassing to the Russians that they built the Berlin Wall.

East Germans fled to the West because they had little opportunity and no legitimate means of expression. This was not the only situation where people vote with something besides a ballot. Today many in the United States and throughout the world feel are “voting” for the oldest means of financial security for themselves and their families. Buying certified gold is voting for safety when the dollar slides, voting for economic security when the regulators of Wall Street fail in their trust, and when the politics of the nation are in gridlock and reduced to name calling.

Buying certified gold is a guarantee of quality and of value in a world that has learned, by painful experience, to distrust politics, leaders, and the value of the nation’s currency. Today, while the politics of the nation goes on, a subset of the population is voting every day with their money, by buying gold. Like the East Germans who walked to a better future, those who invest part of their assets in gold stand to preserve their standard of living regardless of the direction of national politics, the duration of national wars, and the seemingly endless slide of the nation’s currency

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The grade of certified gold coins is determined by experts during the certification process. The grade or state of the coin is especially important as it is the rarity of the coin that determines its value above its price as gold bullion.

Certified gold coins are priced by rarity and by the coin’s popularity. Only a certain number of gold coins of each type were minted and many were melted down during the 1933 confiscation. Coins from a given era or by a particular designer, such as the Saint Gaudens double eagle minted from 1907 to 1933, may be more popular, raising their price beyond that dictated by their availability.

Availability, which is a function of rarity and popularity, also raises the price of certified gold coins. When everyone who owns a particular gold coin of a given grade and rarity wants to keep their investment, its scarcity drives up its price, even though there may be quite a few in existence. It is the number of certified gold coins that are available that sets the price, not the number put away in safety deposit boxes. In uncertain economic times like today, certified gold coins are not only a great investment but they are popular investments, making them highly desired commodities. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The difference between the newly minted coins and the old is that new are essentially vehicles for buying gold bullion. Their value is based upon their gold content as there is no scarcity of supply. On the other hand old gold coins have a collector value above their gold content.

In the certified coin market what matters for new gold coins is that they are authentic and gold. On the other hand a pre 1933 gold coin, even in used condition, has added value. How much added value it has depends on how rare the coin is and what is its condition. Whereas a coin such as a 1926 Saint Gaudens double eagle in fairly good condition but still worn may command a premium of roughly double its price as bullion the same coin in exceptional, mint, condition may be worth as much as $30,000. Rarer double eagles such as a 1927-D in exceptionally good condition may command over $2,000,000.

In the certified coin market, with a reputable dealer such as the Certified Gold Exchange, a rare coin is professionally graded in order to definitively determine its price based upon rarity and exact preservation standards. A professionally graded and certified gold coin in the certified coin market is fairly priced based upon exacting criteria. Such an investment has a known value, which can be known by consulting standard coin references, and which can far outdistance its value as bullion. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The value of a rare gold coin can be substantially more than its value as gold, provided that the coin is properly graded and protected. Coin certification is a necessity for investment in rare gold coins. A scratched bar of gold is still worth its weight in gold whereas a gold coin that was worth far more when perfect, drops in value if damaged and may end up only being worth its weight in gold.

A means of investing with security and peace of mind is to invest in PCGS Certified Gold Coins. The Professional Coin Grading Service is a rare coin certification company that gives the collector and investor the assurance that the rare gold coin is correctly and professionally valued. The Professional Coin Grading Service encases rare gold coins in sealed plastic display containers for protection against loss of value due to tarnish and scratches.

Because the cases of PCGS Certified Coins are bar coded and have a serial number, they allow tracking of the details of certification. Use of a professional grading service offers assurance that a coin has not been improperly graded and is, therefore, worth its stated price.

Competent, professional companies such as PCGS Certified Coins provide rare gold coins, enjoyable for a lifetime and with value will which will outdistance even gold in these troubled economic times. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The tumbling gold spot price began last week, and continued this week with the only anomaly occurring on Friday of last week. Today’s trading floor is still wide open, and right now the gold spot price is holding steady just about $1100 per ounce on the CONMEX division of the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX).

Since 2001, physical possession gold buying has been on the rise because more investors have seen the mountain of debt that our nation is under. Not only that, but our government has held interest rates exceptionally low for a historically long amount of time, and the recent reports of wholesale inflation (up 1.8% last month) and core inflation (up 0.5% last month) are strong indicators that we could be looking at higher prices and less spending power in the future.

Some investors foresee short-term inflation, which is a direct result of the printing presses that have been running non-stop. If our government keeps inflation in check for the near future, then gold prices would likely diminish. If you believe that inflation will affect your spending power for the next year or so, then you may want to contact a gold coin exchange to facilitate a gold bullion investment.

On the other hand, if you believe that an inflationary cycle is only another chapter in the financial downfall of the United States, you fall into the demographic of investors who have historically outperformed gold bullion investors by holding certified gold coins long-term. To learn more about the potential profitability and wealth preservation powers of gold bullion and certified gold coins, contact a reputable gold exchange that can be found by typing in that term to a major search engine, or register below for the 2010 Insider’s Guide to Gold investing, provided free-of-charge by the Certified Gold Exchange. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

These two industry-recognized leaders for gold and silver coin inspection and grading maintain population reports, updated prices, and the latest news about thousands of types of coinage. Check out PCGS at www.PCGS.com and visit NGC online at www.NGCCoin.com.

If you plan to hold gold 1-14 months, or are someone who is strictly looking to profit from the falling dollar and short-term inflationary fears, then you may want to consider gold bullion coins or even bullion bars, which are slightly less expensive. While PCGS coins and NGC coins are more expensive than raw bullion, they tend to outperform bullion after the first 14 months of holding, so long-term investors who plan to sit on their gold for a while have historically done better financially with investment-grade, numismatic coins.

Another benefit of NGC and PCGS coins is that even though they are investment-type coins they hold “recognized value to collectors of rare and unusual coins,” which is the exact stipulations that must be met for a gold coin to be deemed completely private. If you want to privatize your wealth with gold for a long period of time, or if you would like to learn more about gold bullion and NGC and PCGS coins, contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly at 800-300-0715 or register below for one of our obligation-free investment tutorials. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

• PCGS/NGC-certified MS64 Morgan Silver Dollar

• PCGS/NGC-certified MS65 Peace Silver Dollar

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation have take special care in examining and grading these American antique pieces, so if you are interested in purchasing precious metals that were not confiscated by our government historically then these coins could be a great match for your portfolio and your investment goals.

Investors who shift funds into the certified silver market typically are after a few specific things. They have a goal to preserve their wealth over a period of 14 months or more, and most certified silver investors would like to keep possession of their rarities until our national debt is paid down, the dollar is strengthened, and the entire eco-political situation within the United States levels out.

There are no guarantees that you could make a fortune with certified silver coins, although many investors have been able to privately protect and grow their wealth with these pieces throughout our recession. The silver spot price does not always follow the inverse relationship with the dollar in the same way that gold does, and the recent increases in certified silver prices have been due to the fact that predominant buying for safety from the collapse of the dollar. If consumer confidence falls in 2010, expect higher prices in both the certified gold and silver markets. Understand, however, that nothing is certain in investing or in life, so evaluate your circumstance and your own worldview before vesting in any fund or physical possession precious metal. Contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly if you would like to take your position with certified silver coins or certified gold coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

A certain demographic of investors can add real value to their portfolios by owning certified gold coins, and investors who do not fall into this demographic should consider shifting their funds into another market. The typical certified gold coin investor falls into ALL of the following categories:

• Investors who desire a physical, privately held gold investment

• Investors who plan to hold their gold longer than 14 months, and generally longer than two years

• Investors who believe that US currency could eventually reach the point of collapse if our government’s current monetary policies continue

• Investors who seek a completely private gold investment that the government has deemed to be non-confiscatable in times of national financial distress

Certified gold coins have a proven track record of outperforming gold bullion for investors who hold their metal longer than 14 months, so investors who desire a short-term stake in physical gold should take a position in the gold bullion market. You can learn more about gold bullion by visiting www.Gold-Bullion.org, or contact the Certified Gold Exchange today if you feel that you fall into the aforementioned group of investors who have historically done well financially with certified gold coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

If your goal is to buy certified gold, remember that these coins are most useful when purchased for long-term (14 months or more) holding periods. Although certified gold coins have historically been more profitable than gold bullion when utilized for long-term holds, there are higher costs associated with the purchase of certified gold coins. If you plan to hold your gold for a few years or if you plan to keep it as long as possible for security and privacy of wealth, the higher costs should not scare you away from the certified gold market.

These coins are completely private and highly recommended for investors whose aim is to empower themselves financially during this recession, or over a period of years or decades. You may like to visit www.PCGS.com for national average retail prices for the most commonly traded certified coins, or contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly for institutional discounts on these same investment-grade coins.

Investment-grade certified coins move in the same direction as gold bullion prices, which are based on the COMEX gold spot value. Certified coins also have numismatic value, which tends to grow with time, as is the case with most antiques. This numismatic appeal is what allows these coins to be classified as completely private, government non-confiscatable assets.

If you plan on a short-term hold and you are strictly concerned with immediate profits, it may not be a good idea to buy certified gold. Gold bullion is a more viable option for profit-seekers who plan on a holding period of 1-14 months, and you can learn exponentially more about the gold market by contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly or by browsing through one of our helpful investment tutorials, which are found below. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

There are three basic schools of thought on how our economy will fare over the next few years. Some believe that our dollar may become devalued once our government starts to raise interest rates, and the resulting inflation could boost gold prices. Or, our government may find a way to cut spending and pay down our national debt, in which case the dollar would strengthen and gold values would fall. The last and most frightening option is that our government’s toxic mixture of bad debt, printing presses that are firing on all cylinders, and disapproval by the international community could cause the demise of the dollar and possibly our entire economy.

If you believe that our economy will climb out of this hole promptly, then a precious metal exchange may not be an entity that you need to contact. If you foresee inflation in the near future, you may want to consider a bullion-type investment for short-term profit. If you believe that our nation is headed toward a long-term recessionary cycle, and you want to empower yourself financially in this case, then think about a certified gold coin investment. A reputable precious metals broker will be answer any other questions you have about today’s gold market. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

This migration to gold has been evidenced by the 0.6% price increase of gold today due to predominant buying, as well as the general upward trend since 2001.

 You can track the gold spot price’s movement due to US dollar fluctuation against the spot movement due to supply and demand with the Kitco Gold Price Index, or visit www.GoldPrice.net for historical charts and projections on future gold prices.

 If you are buying gold for safety, it may be wise to consider an investment in PCGS-certified gold coins such as:

• $20 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle coins

• $20 Lady Liberty Double Eagle coins

• $10 Indian Head gold coins

The aforementioned coins have a proven track record of outperforming gold bullion over a long-term holding period, and collectible investment-grade US coins such as these have been deemed non-confiscatable by the US government’s Executive Order 6102, Section 2-B. If you are interest in a private type of gold that could preserve your financial independence if the dollar approaches a collapse, certified gold coins could be a better financial decision. For the latest information on the gold market, register below for the 2010 Insider’s Guide To Buying Gold.

If you are buying gold for profit because you foresee the gold spot oprice rising substantially within the next 14 months, look toward the gold bullion market. Insist on physical delivery of your gold, because derivatives and gold stocks involve unnecessary risk to your hard-earned wealth. Gold bullion has a fair markup of 2-7% over the gold spot price, depending on the particular item and the gold exchange that facilitates your investing. Some of the most popular gold bullion products are:

• Credit-Suisse gold bullion bars (2-3% over spot)

• $50 American gold Eagle coins (5-7% over spot)

• $50 Canadian gold Maple Leafs (4-6% over spot)

These investments work best when held 14 months or less, and you should remember that gold bullion could be confiscated by our government in a national financial emergency. This happened during the Great Depression, and you can read more about the historic gold bullion confiscation at www.Gold-Investment.info.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The Certified Gold Exchange is the nation’s only long-standing gold dealer with an A+, Zero Complaint rating with the Better Business Bureau (www.BBB.org). Not all investors are qualified to do business with the Certified Gold Exchange, so make sure that you choose a gold brokerage that maintains a BBB rating of A or better, with no more than one complaint.

You may choose to contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly, because our friendly specialists can always point you in the correct direction if we are unable to personally facilitate your gold investing. If you would like to invest in gold with the help of the Certified Gold Exchange, feel free to call us toll-free at 800-300-0715 or register below for one of our award-winning gold investment tutorials.

Reputable gold exchanges offer their clients bullion and certified gold, because each of these two types of gold serve a different purpose. Profit-seekers who plan on a hold of 14 months should purchase bullion bars and coins, but investors who are considering a long-term wealth preservation play could do better financially with certified gold. To learn more about gold exchange reputations and why a company’s reputation is so important, contact us directly or register below for your copy of the 2010 Insider’s Guide to Gold Investing. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

A certified rare coin is a pre-1933 US-minted coin minted that has been deemed to be in “Uncirculated Mint State” condition. The professional Coin Grading Service (www.PCGS.com) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (www.NGCCoin.com) employ expert numismatists who examine and grade each coin that comes in. Coins that are worthy of certification are given a unique serial number and bar code, and the coins are individually sealed in a clear, air-tight, tamper-proof holder.

Although many investors have shied away from making a gold investment in the past, financial analysts recommend a 20-30% hedge in physical gold. By protecting your remaining assets with gold, you could offset losses in your portfolio if our traditional investments continue to underperform. Gold bullion is widely used by investors as a short-term (1-14 months) hedge against inflation, but you should look to certified rare coins if you would like to store your wealth in gold longer than 14 months.

If you have concerns about our leaders’ ability to rescue our economy before the dollar collapses, you are not alone. Millions of investors have empowered themselves and gained financial independence by purchasing physical gold and storing that gold privately. Contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly if you would like your copy of the 2010 Insider’s Guide to Certified Rare Coins mailed to you, or simply request the free, helpful information below. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

For the best information on today’s gold market, call us directly or register for our 2010 Insider’s Guide To Gold Investing below.

• Financial analysts at CitiFX believe that gold could rise 11% in the next three months, which would put the gold spot price at $1300. CitiFX has been calling for the rise in gold since the ore was valued at $255 per ounce on the COMEX division of the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX). It is notable that an 11% gain over three months would trounce the vast majority of US interest-bearing accounts.

• Dr. Michael Berry is a world renowned economist and he predicted the collapse of the housing industry and the current credit crunch years ago. Dr. Berry believes that our dollar’s devaluation will continue, and he thinks that this will have a rich effect on gold prices, as it did historically. Dr. Berry believes that the gold spot price gold could eventually climb to $1500, and he feels that silver’s spot price could achieve above-$35 levels at around the same time.

• The former President of Princeton Economics, Martin Armstrong, believes that investors will most likely flock to gold in the coming years, especially if consumer confidence within the United States continues to fall. Armstrong foresees gold prices of $1350 in 2010, and he believes that our economy will cross into a substantial “danger zone.” Armstrong’s projections are based on his belief that higher demand for safe-haven assets will drive gold prices.

While stocks, bonds, and cash accounts have been projected to lose significant value over the next few years, gold prices could continue to escalate in response to the falling dollar and our economy’s “wobbly legs.” The 2010 gold price projections that have come forth could be excessively high or even far below the numbers that will actually materialize, so keep a close eye on the gold market with the Certified Gold Exchange.

If you feel that you require some protection with a hard asset like gold, and you think that gold could go up over time, give us a call or register below to receive your copy of our 2010 Gold Price Projections Insider’s Guide. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

1. First of all, research any and all gold exchanges with whom you are considering doing your business. Before purchasing precious metals from a company, look at that company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) report, which can be found at www.BBB.org. The BBB provides client ratings and complaint histories for all of the nation’s major gold exchanges, so utilize this information before you vest your funds with any brokerage. Never invest with a gold exchange that has anything less than an A rating with the BBB, and avoid companies that have multiple complaints. 

2. Contact the company that you wish to do business with, and speak to one of the company’s account representatives to find out if they are concerned with your financial welfare or their own monthly commission. Major exchanges within the United States employ non-commissioned, impartial representatives, and specialists at these entities are very knowledgeable about the precious metal market. Avoid investing with celebrity-endorsed firms, because your final costs will be abnormally high due to the celebrity’s sponsorship. 

3. Take a small position before you begin to fully diversify your portfolio. Once you see how the company operates and you receive your first order, you can evaluate whether or not this company deserves to facilitate your future gold investments. If you encounter problems that are not readily resolved or if you feel pressured, you should continue looking for a company that is comfortable for you. If you are satisfied with the execution of your order, then it is time to fully hedge your assets with gold. 

4. Once you have chosen a gold exchange to do business with, heed the advice of mainstream financial advisors by investing 20-30% of your assets in gold. This is considered the ideal amount an investor should own in order to balance their portfolio during unsteady economic times. If you are ready to buy gold, locate a reputable and reliable gold exchange by contacting the Certified Gold Exchange directly. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) examine historic American coins, and some of these coins have been certified as being in Uncirculated Mint State (MS) condition. MS61 coins are the lowest grade that investors prefer, and MS61 coins carry a lower premium than their higher grade. Investors purchase coins from MS61-MS66, because these coins have shown a historical tendency to track the roving gold spot price.

Certified American bullion coins are more of a marketing ploy than a wise investment vehicle, because most of the modern-day coins from the US Mint are in perfect or near-perfect condition. If you buy the raw bullion coins and have them certified yourself, it is highly likely that your coins could grade MS69 or MS70. By investing in certified American gold coins that were minted prior to 1933, you possess a completely private investment that has tremendous upside potential.

The $20 Saint Gaudens and the $20 Lady Liberty have outperformed gold bullion investments for 14 consecutive months, and the privacy of these certified coins is their crucial benefit.If you are prepared to enter the gold coin market or if you would like more information about the different certified American gold coins, call us at 800-300-0715 to learn the best way to place these coins in your portfolio. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Gold coins with a $10 face value were titled Eagles, so the “double” stems from the fact that the new coins were double the face value of any previously existing American coinage. The $20 Lady Liberty Double Eagle was a continuation of the Lady Liberty series, which already included a $10 and $5 coin.

In 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt ordered the design of a new gold coin, and Augustus Saint-Gaudens design of Lady Liberty was impressed upon all $20 gold coins within the United States from 1908-1933. Roosevelt declared that Saint-Gaudens’ coin was the most beautiful design that he had ever laid eyes upon, and it was instantly declared a classic coin not meant for circulation.

Certified gold Double Eagles came into existence in 1986, when the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) was formed. This organization examines and grades historic coins from around the world, and numismatists at PCGS have certified some gold Double Eagle coins as being in “Uncirculated Mint State” condition. These coins are highly sought by US coin collectors and long-term gold investors for their unique story, numismatic value, and their inherent one ounce of gold.

PCGS has protected these American antiquities within a hermetically sealed, tamper-proof container, and each coin has been assigned a grade and serial number. If you are ready to supplement your current holdings with certified gold Double Eagles, call us at 800-300-0715 contact us electronically for free, customized information. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Although the vast majority of US citizens are increasing their precious metal holdings at the moment, there are always investors who want to take profits by liquidating their assets. This tutorial will be helpful even if you are not an investor, because many individuals have come into the gold market through an inheritance or a lucky find. No matter how you came into your certified gold coins, it is imperative that you are able to convert back into cash with ease.

Prices of certified gold coins can be tracked at www.PCGS.com, but keep in mind that these prices represent the national average retail prices of a given coin. While some retailers may sell coins at or above these prices, it is highly unlikely that any dealer will pay you that amount. Reputable gold exchanges employ a buy-and-sell spread of 14-24%, which means that you can expect a buyback price of 14-24% below the price that the coin is selling for.

You could attempt to sell your metals through eBay, Craigslist, or another online market for a higher amount that a gold dealer will offer, but it could require weeks or months to liquidate these holdings to a reliable buyer. Most investors contact a mainstream exchange and get a live quote, preferably the same exchange that the coin was purchased from. The Certified Gold Exchange bids on commonly traded and widely known certified gold coins, so call or email us now to get a live quote if you wish to liquidate your holdings or add to your current collection of coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

It is simple to get started in the certified gold coin market, and many of our nation’s investors have entered this market since our traditional investments started to crumble a few years ago. The gold spot price has increased to $1183 from $252 in 2001, and some investment-grade, certified gold coins have vastly outperformed this 470% gain over the same amount of time.

If you desire to purchase certified gold coins to fortify your portfolio, keep in mind that not all certified coins are considered investment-grade. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) inspect many types of coins, but the vast majority of their graded coins are traded by collectors and historians, or simply displayed at coin shows.

US investors who would like to protect their assets during our current recession and potentially grow their wealth over the years generally invest in US-minted coins that were minted prior to 1933. The Lady Liberty series and the $20 Saint Gaudens gold coin are two of the most widely utilized types of certified gold coins by investors. These coins tend to track the gold spot price’s general trend, and they are also numismatically worthwhile.

Contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly through our secure email server or by calling us at 800-300-0715 ,if you would like to buy or sell certified gold coins, or if you would like your copy of our 2010 Insider’s Guide To Gold Investing. This helpful tutorial will teach you more about hot to buy certified gold coins successfully in today’s market. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some investors simply believe that the gold spot price will rise in the near future, and these investors generally prefer to venture into the gold bullion market. Investors jump into PCGS certified coins when they believe that gold is safer than cash, and when they desire long-term safety from economic collapse.

During the historic gold confiscation, which can be researched further at www.Gold-Bullion.org, coins of recognized rare and unusual value were exempt from seizure. While our government’s leaders could do virtually anything, it is unlikely that they would seize the small amount of gold coins that hold numismatic value.

Historically, investors who have held their gold for longer than 14 months have generally done better financially with PCGS certified coins than gold bullion products. Investment-grade certified gold coins could increase with the gold spot price, and they could also gain numismatic value as the threat of another gold bullion confiscation looms.

If you believe that our economy may be in for further turbulence, and you think that gold could rise with time and be your back-up plan, you have come to the right place. Contact us electronically or give us a call for your copy of our 2010 Insider’s Guide To Gold Investing. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Instead of acting responsibly by paying down our national debt during these difficult times, our government has sided with big business and alienated the household investor. Some investors have been able to see profits during the last four months, but the average American’s portfolio is still 35% below 2005’s same-time levels.

Our unemployment rate (now officially at 10.2%) is steadily climbing and it appears that retirement may never materialize for many Americans. Not only is unemployment becoming the norm rather than the exception, but investors with retirement accounts have lost almost $3 trillion from those accounts in the last three years. That money is gone forever, and most Americans will not be able to reclaim the majority of those dissolved funds. Some investors have decided to convert their assets into physical gold, which could preserve their remaining wealth until our nation’s financial storm passes, if and when it does.

The certified gold market is best reserved for investors who desire a long-term stake in physical gold. Pre-1933, US coins that have been verified as being Mint State by PCGS or NGC have been the best performers over the past 20 years, because these coins track the price of gold and maintain a numismatic, collector value. If our dollar reaches the point of insolvency, our insane policymakers may freeze the gold bullion market and seize gold bullion.

If this happens, certified gold coins would most likely increase dramatically because other types of gold would be illegal to own. Certified gold coins are private, and they have historically exhibited progressive growth above and beyond the gold spot price’s movement. If you would like a copy of our 2010 Insider’s Guide To Gold Investing, or if you are ready to protect your wealth with certified gold coins, email us or call toll-free at 800-300-0715. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Many of our portfolios and retirement accounts have lost crucial amounts of their value, and many economists believe that another wave of losses could be suffered once our government’s stimulus funds are fully depleted. If you value privacy in your investments and you believe that gold could continue to rise in value, it may be wise to consider a certified gold coin investment. Some investors purchase gold and silver bullion because it could produce profits over the next 1-14 months. However, safety-oriented investors shy away from bullion because it could be confiscated by our government as it was in 1933.

The Great Depression ruined our country’s credit, so our government seized gold bullion to pay off its debts. If our government makes another run on gold bullion, coins that hold recognized numismatic value would most likely not be taken.

If you would like to shift away from the US dollar and into physical gold for long-term wealth preservation and safety, these coins may be a good fit because they also fluctuate in line with the COMEX gold spot price. Email us or call us ay 800-300-0715 for more information on investing in certified gold coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Reputable brokers recommend that investors who want a short-term stake in the gold market purchase gold bullion. Credit-Suisse and Johnson-Matthey bars closely track the gold spot price, so investors who want to own physical gold for a few months purchase bars to quickly overcome any premiums.

Other investors purchase gold bullion coins, which are slightly more expensive but available in 22 and 24-karat purity. Many nations mint gold bullion coins, which vary in price from 4-13% over the active gold spot price. The gold bullion coin market is another way to make a short-term gold investment, but investors usually hold these coins for up to a year to see profits. With very few exceptions, gold bullion coins are US government-confiscatable, no matter which country they were minted in.

Investors who want to own physical gold that has been deemed non-confiscatable should avoid gold bullion bars and coins. American coins that were minted prior to 1933 are considered collectibles, so investors utilize these historic rarities for long-term holds. These coins are private, and they tend to gain value along with the gold spot price. Additionally, pre-1933 coins have numismatic value that, like most antiques, generally increases over time.

Contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly for live quotes and discount pricing, or simply to get a recommendation for a reputable gold dealer near you. The Certified Gold Exchange stocks the most widely-traded gold bars and coins, so household and institutional investors are encouraged to diversify with the help of “The Professional’s Choice In Gold.” 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Investment-grade certified coins trend in the same direction as gold bullion, but certified coins are free from the minute-by-minute fluctuations of the gold spot price that is listed on the Commodities Exchange (COMEX). Certified rare coins also tend to gain value over time because they are antique (pre-1933) numismatic coins. Even if the gold spot price were to remain flat for some time, certified coins could rise due to their collector value, as they sometimes have historically. It should be noted that certified coins are generally much more expensive than bullion, because investment-grade, certified coins have been deemed to be non-confiscatabale by the US government.

It is very simple to check certified gold prices around the world. The two market-recognized coin grading organizations, NGC (www.NGCCoin.com) and PCGS (www.PCGS.com) list national average retail prices online. However, these indexes are generally updated only about once a month, so live quotes are available by calling the Certified Gold Exchange directly at 800-300-0715, or simply register for a free gold investment tutorial. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Many dealers promote themselves through celebrity endorsements and expensive advertisements, but this shameless marketing only translates into higher prices for the end user of the coins. Dealers with competitive pricing stay away from hyper-advertising campaigns, and some dealers even have policies in place to match a competitor’s price if it can be authenticated. If you are ready to learn more about the various products offered by the Certified Gold Exchange, sign up for your free copy of our award-winning Insider’s Guide To Gold Investing. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Certified gold bullion has been purchased by some investors, who have been subsequently disappointed with the buyback price for these bullion coins. Collectors could see some substantial gains in these coins in the next 100 years, but they coins are presently nothing more than a commonplace bullion item. Shrewd salesmen have been able to manipulate consumers into buying modern-day American Gold Eagle coins that have been certified as “Mint State.” This means that the coin is in pristine condition, but that is nothing special for coins that are less than 20 years old.

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) inspect and grade historic and modern-day coins. Investors generally buy coins that were minted prior to 1933, because these coins are deemed by our government to be private investments. When each coin becomes certified, it has been granted “Mint State” status. It is given a serial number, issued a Mint State ranking (61-70) and sonically sealed in a tamper-proof slab.

It is important to understand that coins do not become non-confiscatable simply by receiving a Mint State grading. Executive Order 6012 states that coins of “recognized rare and unusual value” are exempt from gold bullion confiscation. Brand new coins that are produced in high volume are not rare or unusual, even if it is in perfect (MS70) condition. Coins that have been issued by the US Mint since 1986 should be in excellent condition, so investors are wise to ignore savvy marketers who want to convince you otherwise.

If you require a short-term position in the gold coin market, uncertified bullion coins may be a shrewd investment. Long-term gold investors should avoid bullion because it could be confiscated within the next year due to the weakening dollar and out-of—control government debt. Certified historic coins may be a better financial decision if our economy’s health is your concern. Give us a call today if you require free, customized mail-out reports on a wide variety of gold investments. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

1. Reputation is the cornerstone of the gold market, so conduct your due diligence on a number of dealers before making your investment. Wise investors take advantage of www.BBB.org and www.Alexa.com to get the best background information on all potential dealers. Reputable gold and silver dealers will have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, with one or fewer complaints. Amazon Alexa rates companies on a one to five-star scale, so companies with a Five Star rating are advisable to do business with. Telephone a few gold companies and ask how long they have been in business, and never invest with a fly-by-night operation.

2. A respectable precious metal exchange will have competitive prices, and many dealers will offer to match or beat other dealers’ prices. Precious metal dealers that trade the most commonly known items tend to have the best prices, because these types of coins are easy to price check. Be wary of dealers who offer obscure coins with fantastic stories, because liquidity could easily become an issue in the future.

3. Finally, ensure that your gold dealer of choice offers a wide variety of precious metal products. Bullion dealers obviously want to sell bullion, and rare coin dealers only want to promote rare coins as wise investments. By dealing with an entity that is authorized to sell bullion and rare coins you will be able to efficiently meet your portfolio’s requirements.

If you still have further questions about reputable gold and silver exchanges that operate in the United States, register for your free copy of our award-winning investment tutorial. After completing this tutorial, you will be well on your way to a successful precious metal investment. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Investors utilize PCGS and NGC certified coins because their numismatists have a proven track record of rare coin assaying. PCGS and NGC coins can be purchased from many different reputable gold exchanges, and the top-performing investment-grade coins are pre-1933, American gold and silver coins. PCGS and NGC maintain price guides and population reports, and individuals who want to learn more about certified gold coins can visit www.NGCCoin.com, www.PCGS.com, and www.Rare-Coin.org.

Investors also value pre-1933 US coins that have been certified by PCGS and NGC because they are privately held investments that cannot be confiscated by our government like gold bullion can. During the historic US gold confiscation in 1933 (see www.Gold-Bullion.org), coins of rare and unusual value to collectors were exempted from seizure. Today’s savvy gold investors who want to hold their gold for a lengthy amount of time purchase widely traded gold coins that have been certified by PCGS or NGC. Their coins are private, non-confiscatable investments that could be more profitable than gold bullion over the next decade. Give us a call today to learn more about the various types of gold investments. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some investors have opted to line their portfolios with silver rather than gold, because silver’s per ounce price is much lower than that of gold. Silver bullion items like Johnson-Matthey bars and the American Silver Eagle have become common additions to investors’ portfolios since silver prices started to sustain above-$4 per ounce levels in 2003. Congress approved our Administration’s bank bailout and stimulus plan in February.

Some investors believe that our lawmakers’ decisions will cause a devalued US dollar and higher prices, but the majority of Americans see something far worse on the horizon. Medicare, the FDIC, and Social Security are on the fast track to insolvency, and our government has relentlessly added to our nation’s mountain of debt. It is impossible to spend your way out of debt, and many savvy investors have decided to give themselves some independence in case our economy completely collapses.

Certified silver coins like the Morgan Dollar and the Peace Dollar are completely private investments, and these coins have historically appreciated when traditional investments have failed. If you are looking for a way to protect and grow your wealth until our nation’s financial situation is under control, certified silver coins may be a wise diversification for you. If you contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly instead of one of the dealers in our network, you are eligible for a free copy of our Insider’s Guide To Certified Silver Investing, so call our friendly experts at 800-300-0715 to get yours.

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some investors foresee inflation and higher prices in the near future, and these investors usually purchase gold bullion bars and modern-day coins. These items trade close to the gold spot price, so they are better for short-term gold investing. Investors who plan to hold their gold for a few years or more might consider certified gold coins, which have historically been more profitable than bullion over the long-term. These coins trade in the same direction as the gold spot price, but their numismatic value allows them to be classified as a private, “rare and unusual” coin. Contact the Certified Gold Exchange at 800-300-0715 to get the facts about the various types of investment-grade coinage. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

When gold and silver spot prices fluctuate, certified coins generally shadow their movement. The inherent precious metal content of certified coins causes the coins to rise with escalating spot prices, and investors stand to gain profits from the increasing numismatic value of the coins. As with any antique or collector’s item, demand for certified coins could wane, but current economic conditions make it highly unlikely that these coins will depreciate anytime soon.

Projections are for the gold spot price to surpass the $1400 mark in 2010, and pessimistic investors may want to think again before doubting gold’s ability to reach those heights. The gold spot price exceeded the elusive $1100 mark around 11am EST, despite some Wall Street economists’ calls for profit-taking. Those economists desperately want to instill faith in US stock indexes, but the bulk of investors foresee long-term trouble for our traditional markets.

If economists like Peter Schiff are correct, the United States could be headed toward a depressionary cycle of a decade or longer. If you require portfolio protection, and a back-up plan in the event of a worst-case scenario, a physical gold investment may be your financial life preserver. Contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly at 800-300-0715 to educate yourself about recent changes in the certified gold market. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Many of these coins were melted down by our government in 1933, when President Franklin Roosevelt confiscated all gold bullion within US borders. Millions of American rarities were lost forever, but some gold Double Eagles have survived. Many citizens illegally hoarded the Double Eagles from 1933-1971, when President Richard Nixon removed the US from the Gold Standard.

Soon after, grading companies like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) were incepted. These entities inspect, grade, and certify historic American gold and silver coins. Numismatists, collectors, and investors greatly value the services that PCGS and NGC provide, because these two organizations have revolutionized the gold market.

Many investors buy certified gold Double Eagle coins as their gold diversification, because certified gold Double Eagle coins tend to appreciate more significantly. In addition to the increased profitability potential of certified gold Double Eagle coins, they are non-confiscatable in the event of a second gold bullion confiscation. Contact a reputable gold dealer locally, or contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly, to learn more about these secure and potentially profitable investments. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

As evident on their websites, PCGS and NGC have accepted the responsibility of grading innumerable types of coins, but all of these coins are not “investment-grade.” The best certified gold investments meet a few guidelines that gold investors have followed since the certified coin market first came into existence in 1986.

The best certified gold investments are commonly traded and widely known. By investing in pieces that fit this description, liquidity will never be an issue if and when you decide to sell. Obscure coins usually carry exorbitant premiums, and it sometimes requires years to find a suitable bid when you want to liquidate.

Mint State coins range from MS61-MS70, but investors usually buy pre-1933, US-minted coins in the MS61-MS66 range. All Mint State versions of these coins are deemed non-confiscatable if our government again decides to seize gold bullion, as it did in 1933. Excessive premiums, thin markets, and awkward price fluctuations steer most investors away from MS67-MS70 coins, while collectors, historians, and numismatists focus more on those obscure rarities. Investors should also be cautious about modern-day, certified gold investments. Post-1986, MS69 and MS70 Gold Eagles are nothing more than gold bullion in a $30 box, so don’t let over-aggressive marketers tell you differently.

By staying within these parameters when investing in certified gold coins, you can join the mass of investors who have secured their portfolios, and profited, with the best certified gold investments. Visit www.Gold-Investment.info for an educational gold investment tutorial, or contact the Certified Gold Exchange directly to get started. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

As a general rule, investors who seek short-term profit purchase gold bullion coins like the American Eagle and the Austrian Corona. US investors who would like protection, and a back-up plan, for their current investments usually purchase commonly traded and widely known certified coins.

The $20 Saint Gaudens coin and the entire Lady Liberty series, when certified as Mint State by either the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), are the most heavily utilized investment-grade gold coins today. Contact www.Gold-Bullion.org and www.Rare-Coin.org to learn more about bullion are certified coin investing.

Market experts can help to make gold investing easier for those who want to get their feet wet, because these specialists can provide critical information and historic data. They say that two heads are better than one, but investors gain access to an entire team of researchers by dealing with a reputable, large-volume gold exchange. By joining forces with a long-standing gold provider, investors dramatically increase their chance of a successful investment. Contact one of these dealers now, or simply contact the Certified Gold Exchange and inquire about large-volume discounts that may be available. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Thankfully, there are effective ways to research prospective companies before investing. The best gold exchanges have rating of A or better with the Better Business Bureau, and the ideal company will have zero complaints registered at www.BBB.org. Investors can also utilize Amazon Alexa (www.Alexa.com) to conduct their due diligence before sending money to any investment firm. These company rating indexes are particularly helpful during difficult financial times, because the money that we have saved is much more precious to us when so many people are losing theirs.

Many investors who are new to the gold market do not realize that there are two different types of investment-grade gold. Gold bullion is advisable for investors who want to hold their metal from 1-14 months. These investors see the potential to score some quick profits, so the low premiums on gold bullion items are preferred. Since gold bullion prices fluctuate so rapidly because of the gold spot price, it can be difficult to time purchases and sell-offs correctly.

Many gold bullion dealers neglect to tell their clients that bullion can be confiscated by our government at any time, so safety-oriented investors who want to hold their gold longer than 14 months diversify with certified gold coins. These coins tend to outpace gold bullion’s gains over the long-term, and their government non-confiscatability is a main draw for many US investors. Our shaky economy has produced widespread fear of another gold confiscation, which could be our government’s way of backing up the struggling dollar.

Certified coins usually cost a great deal more than bullion, so it is only a wise investment if you plan to hold long-term and you feel like our dollar could eventually collapse. Research your potential gold dealer now, or simply contact the Certified Gold Exchange at 800-300-0715 to receive free information or get started with your gold diversification. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The gold spot price was at $1042.60 per ounce at 11am EST, down $2.50 for the day and up $33.30 in the last month. Projections from the Wall Street Journal are for the gold spot price to reach $1100 before the end of 2009, so investors are anxious to see whether these numbers will materialize before the ball drops for 2010. Investors who want to learn more about the gold price and certified gold coins should visit www.GoldPrice.net, where live prices and information is available around the clock

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

By 11am EST, gold is trading at $1043.80 per ounce, which is $2.40 above today’s opening levels. The gold spot price has spiked 39.6% within the last 365 days, and Wall Street Journal economists have projected that the yellow metal could reach $1400 per ounce in 2010. The future of certified rare coin prices looks very bright with these projections, because these coins have historically outpaced gold bullion two-to-one. There are no guarantees in life, but many investors fear that our nation’s leaders will continue to look out for their own interests. If the powers in Washington do put their own interests before that of the nation, Americans who want to take control of their future will continue to take strong positions in the gold market. The safety and potential profit that comes with a physical gold investment could far outpace our traditional markets during the next three years. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Nervous investors have increased their demand for safe-haven assets, such as certified rare gold. Some certified rare gold has remained dormant throughout the current gold cycle, so investors only deal with the most widely known, commonly traded coins. Obscure coins may fetch a high premium, but it is harder to price-check these rarities. Obscure coins may also be harder to liquidate since only a limited number of potential buyers exist, so investment-grade coins are the usual recommendation for serious long-term household investors. Most US investors buy pre-1933, American-minted coins to secure their portfolios over the long-term. The $20 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle is a popular example of an investment-grade gold coin. This coin was minted from 1907-1933, and many of today’s investors shift their funds into 22-karat, certified Saint Gaudens coins. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) examine these coins for their authenticity and their quality, before placing them in a sonically sealed plastic slab. This slab helps the coins retain their luster and value, and each coin has its own serial number and grade assignment clearly labeled on the slab. Successful gold investors usually buy MS61-MS66 grade coins, which are not subject to a second bullion confiscation by our government. Visit www.Gold-Bullion.org to learn more about the 1933 gold bullion confiscation by President Franklin Roosevelt. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Leading up to this week, gold had gained for four consecutive weeks, while the dollar dropped significantly against the yen, the yuan, and the euro. Our dollar has lost almost 8% in value this year, so gold investors who have made over 42% in the last 365 days have actually increased the worth of their portfolio by 50% in the last year. That amounts to $5000 of profit for every $10,000 invested in gold bullion one year ago, and many of our nation’s economists believe that the upward trend in gold is still gaining momentum. Many of these economists believe that the gold spot price could reach $1500 next year, and it could surpass that amount if the dollar’s demise is hastened by government overprinting. The possible collapse of the dollar has influenced many investors to purchase non-confiscatable gold coins, like the MS64 $20 Saint Gaudens and the MS61 $20 Lady Liberty. These Mint State, certified gold coins tend to outperform gold bullion over the long-term, and their private status is the key benefit for many owners of these coins. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The inability of our economy to rebound after the turmoil of the last three years has underscored the need for investors to diversify into safe-haven assets, so the potential profit that gold could render is worthy of consideration. As our nation nears its debt "ceiling" of $12.1 trillion, many American investors are searching for an asset that offers financial independence if our dollar becomes internationally insolvent. If lawmakers do not raise the debt maximum, which they have done eight times since 2002, they will become unable to operate. Similarly to an overextended shopper at the head of a grocery line, they will be forced to run for the nearest payday advance, and go into even more debt. The powers in Washington seem perfectly content with this scenario, and they are on pace to add another $10 trillion to our national debt over the next decade, so our nation's taxpayers are dissatisfied. Until long-term fiscal imbalances are addressed, our nation's investors will most likely continue to purchase American-made gold coins, like the Saint Gaudens, and the Lady Liberty Double Eagles. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Many home buyers and investors have taken advantage of the high foreclosure levels by buying homes at seemingly low prices, and they have also been taking advantage of low mortgage rates. These buyers have also had the advantage of an $8000 tax credit, but that government offering expires at the end of the month. Many economists have voiced their concerns about whether home sales and mortgage payments can sustain their current levels once our government completely exhausts its stimulus fund. Many real estate investors have sought precious metal diversification, in case the real estate bubble does burst. When government keeps interest rates low, it's free money for real estate investors. However, Ben Bernanke and the rest of the "experts" at the Federal Reserve will soon raise interest rates, so real estate investors could catch their fingers in a mousetrap if rates rise similar to the way they did in the 1970s and the early 1980s. Gold rises with inflation, so many property owners have hedged their real estate with certified gold coins. Contact a reputable gold exchange today to learn more about these beautiful and logical investments. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

This move applies to AIG, Bank of America, Citigroup, GM, GMAC, Chrysler, and Chrysler Financial, but some job titles (such as CEO) are exempt from these pay cuts. Traders and other executives will have their pay capped, but the persons in control of these companies will remain unscathed from the unethical business practices that destroyed their companies-and our nation's economy. The Treasury Department is expected to "warn" companies with outstanding loans that they must pay down their debt, but they haven't emphasized the "or else" in their warnings. These mild caviats may not be enough to motivate companies to repay the bailout money that they received, and this adds insult to injury for American taxpayers. Investors were also angered by the clause which demands that executives receive government approval before seeking benefits like country club memberships, chartered flights, and expense accounts above $25,000, which are luxuries that most Americans will never indulge.

Investors who trust themselves and hard assets that they can hold privately are encouraged to take a position in the certified gold coin market. These coins fluctuate in the same direction as gold bullion, and their numismatic value allows investors to hold these coins without fear of a gold bullion confiscation by our current administration. The gold spot price at noon EST was $1058.50, which is a 0.12% decrease for the day. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

If employers remain unable and unwilling to hire new employees, American citizens will be forced to find other ways to maintain their way of life. Many of today's investors have bought gold and silver, because many economists expect these metals to increase in value during the next few years, or until our unemployment levels begin to retreat. Many of our nation's long-standing corporations have failed or are failing, which has drastically lowered our nation's gross domestic product (GDP) and export levels. This deficiency has devalued our dollar, because other nations have become apprehensive about trading with a currency that is based on a weak economy. In addition to our failing corporate sector, our government's monetary policy has added trillions in US currency to our already saturated supply, thereby sapping spending power from investors with large cash holdings. Investors highly value certified gold and silver coins as a way to store their own wealth, because they are completely private. As contemporary author Susin Shapiro wrote, "Privacy, of course, has the advantage of, well, privacy." 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Sugar, gold, and other commodities have already surpassed historic highs recently, and many economists believe that a weaker dollar will force the prices of many natural resources higher. If our leaders are able to halt the dollar's slide, then they may be able to control long-term inflation. However, if gold were to rise because of the falling dollar and weakening American economy, certified gold coins would trend in the same direction. Certified gold coins carry the inherent value of physical gold, but they also offer an additional numismatic premium that generally tends to grow with time. These coins are completely private and debt-free, and their government non-confiscatability provides an extra element of security and diversification for an otherwise vulnerable portfolio. Investors who would like to learn more about the guidelines for gold investing are encouraged to visit www.Gold-Investment.info, where free information is available for institutional and household investors. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some of these investors have decided to purchase silver and gold bullion, which could increase in value as deflation sucks the life from dollar-based assets. Other investors have opted against bullion bars and coins, which are traditionally used by day traders and short-term investors. Rather than seeking a mere hedge against inflation, some investors are looking for palpable security and protection for the wealth that they have already accumulated. These investors are not looking to score a quick profit, nor do they want to babysit their gold investments daily. Certified gold coins like the $5 Liberty Head and the $20 Saint Gaudens have outpaced the growth made by gold bullion during the last two years, and long-term investors prefer these types of coins to bullion products because certified coins maintain their status as a government non-confiscatable asset, while gold bullion does not. Confiscation guidelines, risk to reward ratios, and the security power of gold are discussed at www.Gold-Investment.info, where investors can take advantage of an award-winning, free tutorial provided by the Certified Gold Exchange. 

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Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Annuities are one option that is available to investors, and this type of investment could yield more than a regular bank account, but accessing these funds could draw the ire and the penalties of the annuity issuer. Bank loan funds are another viable option, and these investments performed quite well in 2009. Investors who seek a stable investment should be cautious of bank loan funds, however, because the 30% loss they recorded in 2008 is a clear sign of volatility. Many investors who are looking for a more secure way to store their wealth are not primarily concerned with making a fortune within a small amount of time, or they would not place their funds in a bank account in the first place. Certified gold coins provide a historically proven hedge against demand-pull inflation, which is the very type of inflationary pressure that many economists expect our dollar to suffer over the next few years. In addition to gold's ability to move against inflation, certified gold coins are completely private, which is a key benefit for many security-minded individuals. Some coins that have been certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service(PCGS), the industry-recognized numismatic company, have vastly outperformed our traditional markets during the last nine years, and many analysts believe that gold prices could rise for the next decade or more. Regardless of the potential profit that may be rendered by precious metals, investors can rest assured that the safety that accompanies certified gold ownership cannot be easily taken away. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Some states have been harder hit than others, but the entire nation bears the weighty, cumbersome yoke of this recession. Nevada is host to a foreclosure rate of almost 5%, which means that 1 out of every 23 households could be facing eviction. Even the states that have fared better are suffering, like Vermont. The Green Mountain State's foreclosure levels jumped 170% from last year's same-time readings, which is a shiny black eye to the shameless campaign that we are a recovering nation. Almost 1 million home"owners" received foreclosure notices during the last three months, and 237,052 properties were repossessed within that same time frame. This is a record number of repossessions for any three month period, but real estate analysts fear that this record was most likely meant to be broken.

Investors who would like to protect themselves and their portfolios from these dire financial circumstances within our nation are encouraged to test a position with certified gold and silver coins. These coins have a numismatic value that tends to grow with time, but even if these coins lose their worth as rare collectibles, the inherent precious metal content and non-confiscatablility of these coins would be protected. Investment-grade coins like the $20 Lady Liberty and the $2.5 Indian Head secure investors' portfolio by providing a liquid asset than can be stored privately by the investor, which is why so many investors have decided to diversify into this rapidly growing market. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

On a positive note, economists had predicted a 2.3% drop in retail sales for the month of September, so the actual reading of 1.5% boosted US stock indexes this morning. Even the lesser 1.5% figure is alarming, though, because it represents the largest margin of decreased sales since December of 2008. Consumer demand for retail goods accounts for 70% of our nation's total eceonomic activity, so the decrease in consumer spending worries many forward-thinking economists. These financial experts are worried that Americans will continue to cut their spending until claims of economic recovery are viable, and not just a pipe dream that is pumped by our government propagandists. Many money managers have advised their clients to invest in palpable assets that are liquid, and gold is one such recommended investment avenue. Investors who are concerned for the long-term future of our nation's economy are encouraged to consider a precious metal investment, not only for the potential profit that physical metals could provide, but also for the virtual bulletproofing that it adds to a vulnerable portfolio. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

Our nation’s leaders are taking a lot of flak for their involvement in our current recession, which has been deepened by the bailout and stimulus plan that has already pledged $11 trillion to temporarily shore up a falling economy. Many Wall Street economists fear that our economy will begin to freefall once the recovery funds are fully exhausted, but these fears are not the only reason that investors buy gold. While inflation does not appear to be a serious threat at the moment, a severe bout with hyperinflation could result when the Federal Reserve starts to raise interest rates, which have been close to zero for an overextended period of time. "We've had a weakening dollar today, which has definitely been supportive of gold prices," said Carlos Sanchez, a precious metal analyst for CPM Group in New York. Sanchez added that inflation could be a “long-term concern" for investors who are heavy in US dollar-based assets. Investors who simply want a hedge against inflation for the next few months may do better with a gold bullion investment. For investors who dread the long-term solvency of our dollar, and our way of life, certified coins are a more appropriate option. Regardless of the type of precious metal that is purchased, physical delivery is strongly advised. This way, your gold comes with privacy, liquidity, and security. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange

The Professional Coin Grading Service(PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation(NGC) are the two industry-recognized coin grading services for serious investors. These two companies closely inspect, grade, and sonically seal gold coins for investors who want a long-term stake in the gold market. American investors typically trade the pre-1933 US-minted coins like the $10 Lady Liberty and the $20 Saint Gaudens. Investment-grade coins range from MS61-MS66, and the risk-to-reward ratio on some of these coins is exceptional. Some of these certified gold coins are 200-400% below their historical highs, which means that they could potentially render some tidy profits for investors during the next few years. These growth and loss trend for these coins is more gradual than with gold bullion items, so many longer-term investors prefer these coins to the modern-day American Eagles and bullion bars. Www.PCGS.com includes a complete list of certified gold and silver coins and their national average retail value, although some major gold exchanges can provide prices that are lower than those listed on the PCGS price guide. 

Daily Updates Archive

Stewart Lawson

Senior Staff Writer - Certified Gold Exchange