A self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a great way to prepare for your retirement, giving you complete control over any investments made.

If you have the time and experience in financial matters to skillfully handle a SMSF, then investment in gold and silver is one way to add security and value to your portfolio.

Gold and silver have maintained their value for thousands of years, and they are often considered a safe haven that can hedge against inflation and protect wealth when financial markets are in turmoil.

How does a SMSF work?

A SMSF is a private super fund that you can set up and manage yourself, although there are strict rules enforced by the Australian Taxation Office. An SMSF can have between one and four members, and the restrictions include:

·      Only using the money to provide retirement benefits;
·      Setting and following an investment strategy that is likely to meet retirement needs; and
·      Keeping comprehensive records and arranging an annual audit by an approved SMSF auditor.

People running a SMSF often require:

·      Time to manage the fund;
·      A large pot of money to make the initial set up and yearly running costs worthwhile; and
·      Financial experience with investments.

Invest in gold and silver

Many SMSF owners consider buying gold and silver bullion an essential part of their investment portfolio, with physical precious metals a safe option considering economic troubles in the US and Eurozone.

Typically, industry super funds do not offer the ability to purchase gold and silver, which is why SMSF is a more flexible option for people hoping to get the most out of their retirement. However, it is always important to seek independent financial advice when considering buying into any investment product.

Guardian Gold understands the stringent regulations that managing a SMSF entails, particularly in terms of documentation, auditing, secure storage and insurance. For example, you must show purchase documentation and evidence of holdings as at June 30 each year.

Our seamless solutions mean we can tailor end of financial year statements and other auditing issues to your specific requirements. As such, you can have peace of mind that your investment continues to gain value without contravening the regulations set out as part of your SMSF.

Storing gold and silver bullion

Comprehensive storage is an important part of investing in physical gold and silver – and precious metals bought through SMSFs are no different.

The most secure way to store bullion is using a private third-party facility. This is why Guardian Gold works in conjunction with Guardian Vaults to provide a truly end-to-end solution that operates seamlessly from purchase through to storage.

Guardian Vaults has two facilities – one in Sydney and the other in Melbourne – both with an unblemished record in ensuring the safety of our clients’ investments.

There is a range of safety deposit boxes and bullion vaults designed to fit your needs, as well as extensive protocols and state-of-the-art technology to keep valuables secure.