Gold has showcased impressive growth this year, with many experts attributing it to uncertainty involving the stability of international markets. Equities have been choppy, which also supports a bullish environment for gold. However, the decision by many central banks to hoard gold gives an even stronger indication of where the market is headed.

The effects of a trade war on precious metals can be difficult to predict, since one has to consider interest rates, the dollar’s strength in relation to foreign currencies, and supply and demand. However, past conflicts give a good indication of what can be expected from future disputes.

Once people understand the true value of silver, and the importance of owning it, one of the first questions that come up is how much they should acquire?  While there is a saying in the financial industry that you should put “ten percent of your cash in precious metals and hope it doesn’t work,” below is a more in depth answer to this question.

A growing number of high net worth individuals are choosing to store some of their gold holdings internationally. This protects them in the event that the geopolitical winds in their nation of residence or birth shift in a dangerous direction. Some of the most popular destinations include Hong Kong and Singapore, but below are some reasons why Switzerland reigns supreme when it comes to long term gold storage.

A large percentage of precious metals enthusiasts acquire their gold and silver with the goal of protecting themselves from inflation and having a genuine source of wealth that can be relied upon during emergencies. However, protecting these metals from theft or confiscation is paramount.

The State of West Virginia recently created excitement among precious metals enthusiasts due to its approval of a bill that would eliminate the sales tax on both silver and gold bullion. This means that precious metals will be treated like money rather than commodities.