Gold and Investing: Top Apps for Precious Metals

 Gold and Investing: Top Apps for Precious Metals

Easily invest in gold and precious metals using secure and beginner-friendly mobile apps.

Why Invest in Gold Today?

Gold has long been considered a reliable store of value. In uncertain economic times, when markets shake and currencies lose strength, gold often stands strong. It’s not just an ancient symbol of wealth—it’s a modern tool for financial security. Investors today use gold to hedge against inflation, diversify their portfolios, and create long-term stability. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your investment journey, gold is worth considering.

Personally, I started investing in gold during a period of inflation in 2020. While stocks were unpredictable, gold offered a calm and steady growth. That experience helped me appreciate the value of holding at least a small portion of precious metals in a diversified investment plan.

Benefits of Investing in Precious Metals

Gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals aren’t just shiny—they’re strategic. Here are a few reasons why investors turn to these assets:

Inflation Protection: When the cost of living rises, gold often rises too.

Wealth Preservation: Gold doesn’t deteriorate or vanish. It holds its value over time.

Global Demand: Precious metals are valued across cultures and countries.

Diversification: They reduce dependence on stocks and bonds alone.

Digital Gold vs. Physical Gold

Today, you don’t need a safety vault to own gold. You can invest in digital gold through various mobile apps. These platforms allow you to buy small or large amounts, often as low as 1 gram, with full backing in physical gold.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature Physical Gold Digital Gold

Storage Needs secure space Stored by provider

Insurance Often not insured Usually insured

Liquidity Hard to sell quickly Easy to sell via app

Minimum Investment Higher Lower (as low as $1)

While I still keep some physical gold coins as a backup, most of my current gold investments are through trusted apps because they offer flexibility, instant access, and easy tracking.

Top Apps for Investing in Gold and Precious Metals

Let’s look at some of the best apps that allow you to invest in gold, silver, and other metals—straight from your phone.

1. Vaulted: Simple and Secure Gold Investment

Vaulted is designed for beginners and experienced investors alike. Backed by the respected Dillon Gage, it allows users to buy real gold stored at the Royal Canadian Mint.

Key Features:

Buy gold in seconds with low fees

Real gold fully insured and stored securely

Great mobile interface for tracking and managing your holdings

Vaulted is excellent if you want full ownership of real gold without the hassle of delivery or storage.

2. Glint: Spend Your Gold Like Cash

Glint is more than just a gold investment app—it also lets you spend your gold via a debit card. It’s ideal for those who believe in gold-backed finance.

Key Features:

Buy and sell gold anytime

Hold multi-currency wallets

Use gold for everyday purchases

Imagine buying a coffee using grams of gold—it’s a futuristic concept made real with Glint.

3. OneGold: Precious Metals by the Ounce or Dollar

OneGold, created by APMEX and Sprott, is one of the most trusted platforms. You can buy gold, silver, and platinum, all backed by real assets.

Key Features:

High transparency and real-time pricing

Auto-invest options

Redeem digital gold for physical metal anytime

OneGold is great if you want full flexibility with secure backing from industry leaders.

4. Robinhood: Trade Gold ETFs Easily

While Robinhood isn’t solely focused on gold, it allows investors to trade gold-focused ETFs like SPDR Gold Shares (GLD). This is ideal for those who prefer a stock-like experience.

Key Features:

Zero commission on ETF trades

Easy to mix with stock or crypto portfolio

Track market performance in real-time

Robinhood works well for tech-savvy investors who like to manage all assets under one roof.

5. GoldMoney: For True Gold Enthusiasts

GoldMoney offers a unique blend of digital gold savings and physical storage. It’s ideal for long-term holders who want more control over where and how their gold is kept.

Key Features:

Buy gold and silver in various currencies

Store in multiple global vaults (Zurich, London, Toronto, etc.)

Option to request physical delivery

GoldMoney feels more like a personal gold bank than an app—it’s best for those looking for wealth preservation over decades.

6. SoFi: Easy Gold ETF Access for Beginners

SoFi is a popular app for beginner investors. It allows users to access gold ETFs easily while offering tools to educate and guide investment decisions.

Key Features:

Trade ETFs like GLD or IAU

Access articles and insights for smarter investing

Combine gold with crypto, stocks, and more

SoFi is perfect if you're starting with a small budget and want guided steps toward smarter gold investing.

Tips Before Investing in Precious Metals

Here are some helpful tips from my own journey and those of friends in the investing world:

Start Small: Begin with a small portion of your portfolio. Even 5-10% in gold can offer strong balance.

Check Storage Security: Always confirm if the gold is stored in a trusted vault with insurance.

Understand the Fees: Some apps charge premiums, spreads, or annual fees.

Track Market Trends: Gold prices can rise and fall with global events—watch inflation, interest rates, and central bank decisions.

Think Long-Term: Gold isn’t about quick profit. It’s a safety net, not a lottery ticket.

Real-Life Example: Why My Friend Chose Gold Over Crypto

A close friend of mine, during the 2022 crypto crash, shifted half his portfolio to gold via an app. While Bitcoin dropped over 50%, his gold holdings stayed steady and even gained slightly. That experience gave him a new respect for gold as a "safe haven" asset.

FAQ: Gold Investing & Apps

Q1: Is it safe to invest in digital gold apps?

Yes, if you choose trusted apps with strong security, insurance, and clear policies. Look for apps partnered with known mints or vaults.

Q2: How much should I invest in gold?

Financial experts often suggest 5-10% of your investment portfolio in precious metals. It depends on your risk appetite and financial goals.

Q3: Can I sell gold instantly on these apps?

Most apps allow you to sell your gold instantly during market hours. Some even offer 24/7 access.

Q4: What’s better: physical gold or digital gold?

Digital gold offers convenience and liquidity, while physical gold gives you direct control. Many investors use both based on their goals.

Q5: Are there any hidden charges in gold apps?

Yes, sometimes. Always read the terms—look out for premiums on purchase, storage fees, and spread between buying and selling prices.