I remember the first time I thought about selling my business. It was a sunny Tuesday morning, and I was sipping my coffee on the back porch. My dog, Charlie, was chasing a squirrel like he had something to prove, and I was scrolling through my inbox, trying to ignore the pile of work waiting for me. That’s when it hit me: maybe it was time to move on. My business had been my baby for over a decade, but I’d been feeling the itch to try something new—something less, well, all-consuming.

But selling a business isn’t like selling a used car. You don’t just put up a sign and hope for the best. It’s a whole process—one that, frankly, felt overwhelming. I mean, where do you even start? That’s when a friend of mine, who’s always two steps ahead of me, mentioned something that changed everything: “You need a business broker.”

At first, I wasn’t sure what that meant. A broker? Like, a real estate agent, but for businesses? Turns out, yeah—pretty much. But finding the right broker isn’t just about Googling and picking the first name you see. It’s about finding someone who gets you, who gets your business, and who knows how to make the whole process as smooth as possible. Here’s what I learned along the way—the hard way, because, of course, nothing worth doing is ever easy, right?

Start with Research (a.k.a. Stalking in the Name of Business)

The first step was hitting the internet like it owed me money. I Googled, I scrolled, I clicked on ads I didn’t mean to click on. (Seriously, why is the “Close Ad” button so tiny?) But eventually, I started to piece together a list of potential brokers from the True Business Builders website. The key here was finding people who specialized in my industry—because not all brokers are created equal.

Pro tip: Look at reviews. And not just the star rating. Actually read what people are saying. I found one broker with glowing reviews, but when I dug deeper, half of them sounded fake. You know the ones—“Best service EVER!!! Highly recommend!!!” Yeah, okay, Chad. Tell me something real.

Meet and Greet (a.k.a. Awkward Coffee Dates)

Once I had a shortlist, I started reaching out. This was basically like online dating, but for selling a business. I sent emails, made calls, and scheduled meetings. And let me tell you, sitting across from a business broker for the first time is a bit like a job interview—except you’re the one doing the interviewing. (Cue the power trip, right?)

During these meetings, I asked a ton of questions. How many businesses have you sold? What’s your success rate? Do you specialize in my industry? And—this one’s crucial—how do you handle confidentiality? Because the last thing I needed was my employees finding out I was thinking of selling before I was ready to tell them.

One broker, let’s call him Steve, had all the right answers. But something about him felt off. Maybe it was the way he kept checking his phone, or the fact that he’d only sold three businesses in the past five years. (Red flag much?) I politely declined and moved on.

The Gut Check

Here’s the thing: You can have all the data in the world, but at the end of the day, you’ve got to trust your gut. I ended up choosing a broker named Lisa. She had the experience, the connections, and—most importantly—she actually listened to me. Like, really listened. When I told her about my goals, she didn’t just nod and say, “Sure, sure.” She asked follow-up questions, gave thoughtful advice, and even suggested a few things I hadn’t considered. (Lisa, if you’re reading this, you’re a rock star.)

Setting Expectations (a.k.a. The “This Might Take a While” Talk)

Once I signed on with Lisa, we had a long chat about what to expect. And by “chat,” I mean she gently reminded me that selling a business isn’t an overnight thing. It’s a process. There’s paperwork, negotiations, more paperwork, and—oh, did I mention paperwork?

We also talked about pricing. This was tricky, because, like most business owners, I thought my business was worth a bajillion dollars. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Lisa walked me through the valuation process and helped me set a realistic asking price. It wasn’t what I’d dreamed of, but it was fair—and it got the job done.

The Rollercoaster of Emotions

Selling a business is kind of like riding a rollercoaster. One day you’re up, because you’ve got a promising buyer. The next day you’re down, because that buyer backs out. It’s exhausting, frustrating, and, at times, completely soul-crushing. But having a broker made it bearable. Lisa was there to handle the nitty-gritty details so I could focus on keeping the business running during the transition. She also acted as a buffer between me and the buyers, which was a lifesaver. (Pro tip: Never negotiate directly with buyers unless you enjoy headaches and heartburn.)

Closing the Deal

When we finally found the right buyer, it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. The final negotiations were nerve-wracking, but Lisa guided me through every step. She made sure all the paperwork was in order, explained every document I was signing, and even gave me a pep talk before the closing meeting. (Lisa, seriously, you’re the MVP.)

When it was all said and done, I walked away with a check in my hand and a bittersweet feeling in my chest. Selling my business wasn’t just about the money—it was about letting go of something I’d poured my heart and soul into. But it was also the start of a new chapter—one I’m still writing today.

Key Takeaways

• Do your research: Find brokers who specialize in your industry and have solid reviews.
• Ask the right questions: Success rates, industry experience, and confidentiality practices are key.
• Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is.
• Set realistic expectations: Be prepared for a lengthy process and a fair (not inflated) price.
• Lean on your broker: They’re there to handle the details and keep things moving smoothly.

Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t try to do it all on my own. Finding the right business broker was a game-changer, and it made the whole experience—while not exactly easy—a lot less stressful. So if you’re thinking about selling your business, take it from me: get yourself a Lisa. You won’t regret it.

Gold has always held a unique allure as an investment asset. It has been a store of value for centuries and has served as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. In today’s financial landscape, investing in gold remains a popular choice, but it’s essential to understand the tax implications of your investments. In this article, we will explore the most tax-efficient ways to invest in gold, helping you make informed decisions while preserving your wealth.

Why Invest in Gold?

Before delving into the tax-efficient ways to invest in gold, like investing in a gold IRA for retirement, let’s briefly discuss why investors are drawn to this precious metal:

1. Diversification: Gold can be a valuable addition to a diversified investment portfolio. It often moves independently of traditional financial assets like stocks and bonds, helping spread risk.
2. Hedge Against Inflation: Historically, gold has maintained its purchasing power over time, making it a reliable hedge against inflation.
3. Safe-Haven Asset: During times of economic uncertainty or geopolitical turmoil, investors tend to flock to gold, viewing it as a safe-haven asset.
4. Long-Term Store of Value: Gold has a long history as a store of value, making it a preferred choice for wealth preservation.

Now, let’s explore the most tax-efficient ways to invest in gold.

1. Physical Gold and Capital Gains Tax

Investing in physical gold, such as bullion coins, bars, or jewelry, can be a straightforward way to own this precious metal. However, it’s important to consider the tax implications when you decide to sell your physical gold.

Capital Gains Tax: In many countries, profits from the sale of physical gold are subject to capital gains tax. The rate of taxation can vary depending on your jurisdiction and the duration of your investment.

Tax Efficiency Tips:

• Hold for the Long Term: In some countries, long-term capital gains are taxed at a lower rate than short-term gains. Consider holding onto your physical gold for a longer period to benefit from reduced capital gains tax rates.
• Check for Exemptions: Some countries offer exemptions or reduced tax rates on certain types of physical gold investments, such as coins minted by the government. Be aware of any tax advantages specific to your region.

2. Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

Gold ETFs provide a tax-efficient way to gain exposure to the price of gold without the hassle of owning physical gold. These funds track the price of gold and are traded on stock exchanges like regular stocks.

Tax Efficiency Benefits:

• Capital Gains Tax Efficiency: Selling shares of a gold ETF typically incurs capital gains tax treatment, which can be more favorable than holding physical gold in some jurisdictions.
• No Storage Costs: You avoid the costs and logistics of storing physical gold, which can eat into your returns over time.

3. Gold Mining Stocks

Investing in gold mining stocks offers indirect exposure to the precious metal. When you invest in gold mining companies, you are betting on the success and profitability of these companies rather than the actual price of gold itself.

Tax Efficiency Considerations:

• Dividend Income: Gold mining stocks often pay dividends to shareholders, which may be subject to income tax. Depending on your country’s tax laws, dividend income may have different tax rates than capital gains.
• Capital Gains Tax: When you sell your shares in gold mining companies, any capital gains are typically subject to capital gains tax. The tax rate may vary depending on the duration of your investment.

4. Gold Futures and Options

Gold futures and options contracts allow investors to speculate on the future price of gold without owning physical gold. These derivative instruments can provide tax advantages in some cases.  You can find out more about this at Turner Investments website.

Tax Efficiency Tips:

• 60/40 Rule: In the United States, profits from trading gold futures and options are subject to the 60/40 rule. Under this rule, 60% of gains are treated as long-term capital gains, taxed at a lower rate, while 40% are considered short-term capital gains, taxed at your ordinary income tax rate.
• Loss Offset: Capital losses incurred from trading gold futures and options can often be offset against other capital gains, potentially reducing your overall tax liability.

5. Gold IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts)

In the United States, a Gold IRA is a specialized retirement account that allows investors to hold physical gold, gold ETFs, or other gold-related investments within a tax-advantaged framework.

Related Article: The Importance of Including Gold Investments in Your Retirement Portfolio

Tax Efficiency Advantages:

• Tax-Deferred Growth: Investments held within a Gold IRA can grow tax-deferred, meaning you don’t pay taxes on gains until you make withdrawals during retirement.
• Potential for Tax-Free Withdrawals: If you meet certain criteria and take qualified distributions, your withdrawals from a Gold IRA can be tax-free.

It’s important to note that Gold IRAs are subject to strict rules and regulations, and not all forms of gold investments are eligible. Therefore, consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines.

6. Gold Bonds and Sovereign Gold Schemes

Some governments issue gold bonds and sovereign gold schemes to encourage citizens to invest in gold. These programs can offer tax advantages and interest income.

Tax Efficiency Features:

• Interest Income: Gold bonds and sovereign gold schemes often pay interest in addition to the potential for capital gains. The tax treatment of this interest income varies by jurisdiction.
• Tax Exemptions: In some cases, governments offer tax exemptions on capital gains from gold bonds or sovereign gold schemes, making them a tax-efficient way to invest in gold.

7. Gold Saving Accounts

Certain banks and financial institutions offer gold saving accounts, allowing you to buy and sell gold electronically. These accounts may offer tax advantages depending on your location.

Tax Efficiency Considerations:

• Tax Treatment of Interest: Interest earned on your gold saving account balance may be subject to income tax. Be sure to check your country’s tax regulations regarding interest income from such accounts.
• Transaction Taxes: Depending on your jurisdiction, transactions involving gold saving accounts may be subject to transaction taxes or fees. Be aware of these costs when using this investment method.

Conclusion

Investing in gold can be a valuable addition to your financial portfolio, offering diversification and protection against inflation and economic uncertainty. However, the tax efficiency of your gold investments depends on various factors, including your choice of investment vehicle, your jurisdiction’s tax laws, and your investment duration.

To make the most tax-efficient decisions when investing in gold, consider factors such as capital gains tax rates, holding periods, and any available tax exemptions or incentives in your country. Consulting with a financial advisor or tax professional is essential to develop a strategy that aligns with your financial goals while minimizing your tax liability. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of investing in gold while optimizing your tax situation for long-term wealth preservation.

As individuals plan for their retirement, they are often presented with a multitude of investment options. From stocks and bonds to real estate and mutual funds, the choices can be overwhelming.

However, one asset class that has stood the test of time and remains an essential component of a diversified retirement portfolio is gold. In this article, we will explore why it is important to have a portion of your retirement assets in gold investments.

The Timeless Allure of Gold

Gold has been cherished by civilizations for millennia, dating back to ancient Egypt and beyond. Its intrinsic value, rarity, and aesthetic appeal have made it a symbol of wealth and prosperity throughout history. While currencies, empires, and economic systems have come and gone, gold has endured as a store of value.

1. Preservation of Wealth: One of the primary reasons to include gold in your retirement portfolio is its ability to preserve wealth. Unlike paper currencies, which can depreciate due to inflation or economic instability, gold tends to maintain its value over time. This means that the purchasing power of your retirement savings is more likely to be protected when you hold a portion of your assets in gold.
2. Diversification: Diversification is a fundamental principle of prudent investing. By spreading your investments across various asset classes, you can reduce the overall risk in your portfolio. Gold is an excellent diversification tool because it tends to have a low correlation with other traditional assets, such as stocks and bonds. This means that when other assets may be performing poorly, gold can often provide stability and act as a hedge against market downturns.
3. Insurance Against Economic Uncertainty: The global economy is susceptible to various uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and financial crises. During times of economic turmoil, gold often shines as a safe-haven asset. Investors flock to gold as a store of value when they are uncertain about the future of traditional financial markets. Including gold in your retirement portfolio can provide a form of insurance against such economic uncertainties.
4. Protection Against Currency Devaluation: Central banks around the world have the power to print money, which can lead to currency devaluation. When a currency loses value, it erodes the purchasing power of its holders. Gold, on the other hand, cannot be printed or manipulated by governments. As a result, it can serve as a hedge against the devaluation of paper currencies.
5. Long-Term Growth Potential: While gold is often seen as a defensive asset, it also has the potential for long-term growth. Over extended periods, gold has shown the ability to appreciate in value. This growth can help your retirement savings keep pace with rising costs of living and provide you with a more comfortable retirement.
6. Portfolio Stability: Gold’s stability can help balance the overall risk of your retirement portfolio. When stock markets experience sharp declines, gold can offset some of those losses, reducing the overall volatility of your investments. This is particularly important for retirees who may have a lower risk tolerance and cannot afford significant market fluctuations.
7. Liquidity: Gold is a highly liquid asset, meaning it can be easily bought or sold in various forms, such as coins, bars, or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This liquidity ensures that you can access your gold investments when needed, which can be crucial during retirement for covering unexpected expenses or taking advantage of investment opportunities.
8. Tangible Asset: Unlike many other investments, gold is a tangible asset that you can physically possess. This characteristic can provide a sense of security, knowing that you have a physical store of value. It’s something you can hold, store, and pass on to future generations.

Gold Investment Options for Retirement

We spoke with Dave Anderson, the C.F.O. of BMOGAM Viewpoints gold investing and he said, “There are several ways to include gold in your retirement portfolio. Here are some common options:

1. Physical Gold: You can buy physical gold in the form of gold coins or bars. These can be stored in a safe deposit box or a secure vault. Physical gold ownership gives you direct control over your investment.
2. Gold ETFs: Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the price of gold are an easy and cost-effective way to invest in gold without the need for physical storage. Examples include SPDR Gold Trust (GLD) and iShares Gold Trust (IAU).
3. Gold Mining Stocks: Investing in gold mining companies is another way to gain exposure to the gold market. These stocks can be more volatile than physical gold but offer the potential for higher returns.
4. Gold Mutual Funds: Mutual funds that focus on gold and precious metals can be a diversified way to invest in the sector. They often invest in a mix of gold mining stocks, silver, and other precious metals.
5. Gold Certificates: Some institutions offer gold certificates, which represent ownership of a specified quantity of gold held by the issuer. While convenient, these may not provide the same level of security as physical gold.
6. Gold Futures and Options: These are more advanced investment vehicles that allow you to speculate on the future price of gold. They are not typically recommended for inexperienced investors due to their complexity and higher risk.”

And if you don’t like these investments, you can choose a gold IRA company to invest with.

Considerations and Risks

While including gold in your retirement portfolio offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to be aware of some potential considerations like is BGASC a reputable company and risks:

1. Storage Costs: If you choose to invest in physical gold, you may incur storage costs for securing your precious metals. These costs should be factored into your overall investment strategy.
2. Price Volatility: While gold can be a stable asset over the long term, it can also experience short-term price fluctuations. It’s important to be prepared for periods of volatility and not panic sell during market downturns.
3. Lack of Income: Gold does not generate income like dividend-paying stocks or interest-bearing bonds. It relies on capital appreciation for returns, which may not be suitable for investors seeking regular income during retirement.
4. Regulatory Changes: Government regulations related to gold ownership and taxation can change over time. Stay informed about any regulatory changes that may affect your gold investments.
5. Timing Considerations: The timing of your gold investments can impact your returns. Buying when gold prices are high can limit your potential for appreciation, while buying during periods of weakness may offer better long-term prospects.
6. Diversification: While gold can be a valuable addition to your retirement portfolio, it should not be the sole investment. Diversify your holdings across various asset classes to spread risk effectively.

Conclusion

Including a portion of your retirement assets in gold investments can play a vital role in preserving and growing your wealth over time. Gold’s historical allure, ability to hedge against economic uncertainty, and potential for long-term growth make it a valuable addition to a diversified retirement portfolio. However, it’s essential to consider your individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon when deciding on the appropriate allocation of gold within your retirement holdings. As with any investment decision, seeking guidance from a financial advisor can help you make informed choices that align with your retirement objectives. By carefully incorporating gold into your retirement strategy, you can enhance your financial security and achieve a more comfortable retirement.

Planning for retirement is a crucial aspect of financial security, and individuals often explore various investment options to ensure a comfortable and worry-free retirement. One asset that has stood the test of time as a potential retirement plan is gold. Historically, gold has been valued for its intrinsic qualities, but is it a good retirement plan? In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of including gold in your retirement portfolio.

The Pros of Investing in Gold for Retirement

1. Intrinsic Value: Gold has been regarded as a store of value for centuries. Unlike paper currencies, which can be subject to inflation, economic turmoil, or government policies, gold’s intrinsic value remains relatively stable. This makes it a reliable asset to preserve wealth over the long term.
2. Diversification: Diversifying your retirement portfolio is a fundamental principle of risk management. Adding gold to your investment mix can help balance the overall risk in your portfolio. Gold’s performance often moves independently of traditional financial assets like stocks and bonds, providing a hedge against economic downturns.
3. Inflation Hedge: One of the significant advantages of gold is its ability to act as an inflation hedge. When inflation erodes the purchasing power of paper currency, the value of gold typically rises. This makes it an attractive choice for retirees looking to protect their savings from the corrosive effects of inflation.
4. Portfolio Stability: Gold has historically exhibited lower volatility compared to other assets like stocks. For retirees, this can be especially appealing, as it helps maintain portfolio stability, reducing the risk of sudden, drastic losses.
5. Tangible Asset: Physical gold, such as coins or bars, is a tangible asset that you can hold in your hand. This physical presence can provide a sense of security and control, particularly in times of economic uncertainty.

The Cons of Investing in Gold for Retirement

1. Lack of Income: Unlike stocks or bonds, gold does not generate income. It doesn’t pay dividends or interest, which means that relying solely on gold for retirement may not provide you with a consistent income stream.
2. Price Volatility: While gold is generally less volatile than stocks, it can still experience significant price fluctuations. These fluctuations can pose a risk if you need to sell gold at a time when prices are low, potentially impacting your retirement income.
3. Storage and Security Costs: If you invest in physical gold, you’ll need a safe and secure place to store it, which can incur additional costs. Additionally, insuring your gold holdings can be expensive, adding to the overall expenses of owning this precious metal.
4. Limited Growth Potential: Gold’s value primarily depends on supply and demand dynamics, rather than the potential for growth in a company’s earnings, as seen in stocks. Over the long term, gold may not provide the same level of capital appreciation as other assets.
5. Liquidity Issues: Selling physical gold can sometimes be less straightforward than selling other investments, especially during economic crises. Finding a reputable buyer and ensuring you receive a fair market price can be challenging.

Conclusion

So, is gold a good retirement plan? The answer depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment strategy. While gold offers several advantages such as intrinsic value, diversification, and protection against inflation, it also comes with drawbacks like lack of income, price volatility, and storage costs.

For most individuals, gold should be considered as a part of a diversified retirement portfolio rather than the sole investment. It can serve as a hedge against economic uncertainty and help preserve wealth over time. However, relying exclusively on gold for retirement income may not be the most prudent choice.

Ultimately, a well-balanced retirement plan should incorporate a mix of assets, including stocks, bonds, real estate, and yes, perhaps a small allocation to gold. Consult with a financial advisor to determine the best retirement strategy that aligns with your specific financial needs and goals, taking into account your risk tolerance and time horizon.

Investing in gold has been a popular choice for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and hedge against economic uncertainty. One convenient way to invest in gold is through Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). ETFs provide investors with exposure to gold’s price movements without the need to physically store and manage the precious metal. However, not all gold ETFs are created equal. Some hold physical gold, while others use derivatives or other financial instruments to track the price of gold. In this article, we’ll explore which ETFs hold physical gold and why they may be an attractive option for investors.

The Appeal of Gold ETFs

Gold has long been considered a safe-haven asset. During times of economic turmoil or inflation, investors often turn to gold as a store of value. Owning physical gold can be cumbersome and costly, as it requires secure storage and insurance. Gold ETFs offer a convenient alternative by allowing investors to gain exposure to gold’s price movements without the logistical challenges of owning and storing physical gold.

ETFs that hold physical gold typically purchase and store the actual metal in secure vaults. Each share of the ETF represents a certain amount of gold, making it a simple and efficient way for investors to own and trade the precious metal.

Popular Gold ETFs That Hold Physical Gold

Several popular gold ETFs hold physical gold in their portfolios. Here are some of the most well-known ones:

1. SPDR Gold Trust (GLD):
   • SPDR Gold Trust, also known as the “GLD ETF,” is one of the largest and most popular gold ETFs in the world.
   • GLD holds physical gold bullion in London vaults and allows investors to buy shares that represent a fractional ownership of the stored gold.
   • It is known for its high liquidity and transparency.
2. iShares Gold Trust (IAU):
   • iShares Gold Trust, often referred to as “IAU,” is another major gold ETF.
   • Like GLD, IAU holds physical gold bars in secure vaults and issues shares backed by these holdings.
   • IAU is known for its competitive expense ratio, making it a cost-effective option for investors.
3. Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares (SGOL):
   • SGOL is another popular gold ETF that holds physical gold.
   • It aims to provide investors with a convenient and secure way to invest in gold.
   • SGOL’s holdings are stored in vaults in Switzerland.
4. GraniteShares Gold Trust (BAR):
   • BAR is a relatively newer entrant to the gold ETF space.
   • It holds physical gold bars in vaults in London.
   • BAR is designed to offer cost-effective exposure to gold price movements.

Advantages of Investing in ETFs That Hold Physical Gold

1. Transparency: Gold ETFs that hold physical gold are required to disclose their holdings regularly, providing investors with transparency and confidence in their investments.
2. Liquidity: These ETFs typically have high trading volumes, making it easy for investors to buy or sell shares at market prices.
3. Lower Expenses: The expense ratios of these ETFs are generally lower than actively managed funds or ETFs that use derivatives.
4. Ease of Ownership: Investing in gold through these ETFs is as easy as buying and selling stocks on an exchange.
5. Physical Backing: Unlike ETFs that use derivatives to track gold prices, ETFs holding physical gold provide direct exposure to the underlying asset.

Conclusion

Investing in gold can be an effective way to diversify your portfolio and protect against economic uncertainty. When choosing a gold ETF, it’s essential to understand whether it holds physical gold or uses other financial instruments. ETFs that hold physical gold, such as GLD, IAU, SGOL, and BAR, offer a direct and transparent way to invest in this precious metal. These ETFs provide investors with the peace of mind that their shares are backed by actual gold holdings stored in secure vaults, making them a popular choice for those seeking exposure to the physical asset without the logistical challenges of ownership and storage. As with any investment decision, it’s crucial to do your research and consider your investment goals and risk tolerance before investing in gold ETFs.