A client-friendly reference of reputable non-bank custodial options for holding physical gold. Focus: allocated/segregated storage, insurance, and jurisdictional diversification.
Updated:
| Provider | Jurisdictions | Storage Type | Insurance | Accessibility | Typical Minimums |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brinks Global Services | US, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong | Allocated / Segregated | Full replacement value (often via Lloyd’s) | Institutional, HNW; retail access via dealers/partners | ~$50k+ for direct accounts |
| IDS (International Depository Services) | US (Delaware, Texas) | Allocated / Segregated; IRA-eligible | Full replacement value (Lloyd’s) | Retail, institutional; common with self-directed IRAs | $5k+ (varies by custodian/IRA) |
| Delaware Depository | US (Delaware, Nevada) | Allocated / Segregated; IRA-eligible | Full replacement value (Lloyd’s) | Retail & institutional; widely supported by IRA custodians | $5k+ (IRA rules apply) |
| Malca-Amit | US, Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, others | Allocated / Segregated | Full replacement value | Institutional & HNW focus; limited direct retail | Often $100k+ |
| Loomis International | Global (US, Switzerland, Sweden, Singapore) | Allocated / Segregated | Full replacement value | Institutional focus; retail via partners | Varies; often institutional minimums |
| Apmex / Citadel | US (via Brinks) | Allocated (via Brinks) | Full replacement value (via Brinks) | Retail-friendly; integrated with Apmex purchases | No strict minimum |
| GoldMoney | London, Zurich, Toronto, Singapore, Hong Kong | Allocated / (with pooled digital access) | Fully insured; independent audits | Digital platform; sell/withdraw to bullion | Very low (gram-level) |
| BullionVault | London, Zurich, New York, Toronto, Singapore | Allocated / (with pooled digital access) | Fully insured; daily audits | Digital platform; instant buy/sell; physical withdrawal with notice | Very low (gram-level) |
Definitions
- Allocated / Segregated: Specific bars/coins held in your name; not pooled with others.
- IRA-eligible: Meets IRS rules for self-directed retirement accounts; must be stored with an approved depository.
- Insurance: Typically full replacement coverage against loss/theft; verify policy terms with the provider.
BitcoinBuilt Notes
- Diversify across jurisdictions and custodians when feasible.
- Keep bar lists/serials, invoices, and periodic vault statements for audit and cost basis.
- Consider liquidity: smaller denominations can be easier to sell or move in a pinch.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only and not investment, legal, or tax advice. Provider terms may change—confirm current details before acting.