Bank safe deposit box, a dealer’s deposit facility,
or bank-independent storage?

Store precious metals securely and anonymously with absolute discretion!

© fotomek – stock.adobe.com

Comparing safe deposit box facilities in Switzerland and Liechtenstein versus the rest of the world

Are you looking for a safe deposit box for your precious metals or perhaps for other valuables? Then your realistic options are storage in your own country of residence or secure storage in a safe haven. Our comparison explores the advantages and disadvantages of the different options available.

Are there still anonymous safe deposit facilities?

If you have invested in gold, silver or other white metals, or plan to do so, you’ll quickly realise that safe storage in a protected location is an essential. Your aim may be to increase your capital, or simply to protect your assets in times of crisis. Yet in either case, keeping your assets secure inside your own four walls is rarely a viable choice.

But what alternatives are there? Are bank safe deposit boxes really safe? Can they still guarantee privacy and discretion? Are there any circumstances in which storage with a precious metal dealer might be recommended? And what are the advantages of private, bank-independent safe deposit boxes in Switzerland or Liechtenstein? Read more to find answers to these and similar questions about asset storage.

© fotomek – stock.adobe.com

The options in UK and the USA

Safe deposit box options in the UK

Renting a safe deposit facility is the most practical way to protect precious metals, cash and many other valuable items. But do all providers offer the same level of protection and discretion? What legal and financial regulations affect safe deposit facilities? And does the UK’s traditional discretion in financial matters still apply?

Safe deposit box options in the USA

Setting up a safe deposit box facility in the US is a great option for the safekeeping of precious metals, cash reserves, and other valuable assets. But what level of protection and privacy do you want? What federal and state regulations apply? And what degree of anonymity can you expect?

The options in Switzerland

Bank safe deposit box

Just as in all EU countries and many other jurisdictions too, investors must have an account with the respective banking institution to open a bank safe deposit box in Switzerland. In addition, it is not at all uncommon to find banks insisting upon a high minimum deposit to set up an account. Customer master data is also recorded, and thus may be shared in accordance with the international Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI or often called Common Reporting Standard CRS) agreement. However, unlike many countries, Swiss banks are not required to keep a central safe deposit box register – which in practical terms means they can operate with a little more discretion. Insurance cover is not usually an option.

Safe deposit facilities via a precious metal dealer

Precious metal dealers in Switzerland or Liechtenstein offer independent safe deposit box facilities in various sizes to qualifying customers making purchases above a defined level. Customers are not required to open a bank account, the contents are insured as standard, and only the customer will know the contents of their respective safe deposit. Some dealers require the annual rent to be paid by direct debit, and further conditions may include commitment to a prior purchase from the dealer. The beneficial owner is usually recorded.

Private, bank-independent storage in Switzerland and Liechtenstein

Privately managed, dealer-independent storage facilities in Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein operate completely outside of the banking system and thus are not subject to any form of government surveillance. Swiss Gold Safe Ltd. can offer you dealer-independent safe deposit boxes and vaults in sizes tailored to your needs – and with insurance included. You can always rely on absolute discretion and full protection of your rights of ownership. These facilities are suitable for all precious metals, jewellery, artworks, important documents, data storage, cash and much more besides. Silver, platinum and palladium can also be stored ex-VAT in a duty-free warehouse.

Schließfach in der Schweiz ohne Bankeinfluss und Händlerbindung
© Christian Tobler - stock.adobe.com
© Tobias Arhelger - stock.adobe.com