Information from the FMA regarding investments in physical precious metals

In principle, the FMA states that the sale and safekeeping of physical precious metals and the reporting of corresponding holdings to clients do not constitute an activity requiring a special license under the law and therefore do not require a license from the FMA. In this context, the providers are not subject to prudential supervision by the FMA. This means, among other things, that purchase contracts and precious metal holdings are not reviewed by the FMA. If custody is offered in addition to sale, the FMA recommends paying particular attention to the security and reliability of the custodian institution and the associated contractual provisions. In particular, the FMA advises caution and skepticism in the case of unusual discounts, delivery conditions and complex business models and service offers.

In the event of any irregularities, investors must enforce the return of the physical precious metal in court if necessary. If the providers are not creditworthy, there is a risk of total loss.

In general, the FMA therefore advises investors to approach such offers with caution and, if necessary, to take into account relevant media coverage.

The FMA's supervision of compliance with due diligence law remains unaffected by this. Persons who trade in goods are subject to customer due diligence obligations for the prevention of money laundering if the payment is made in cash and the amount is CHF 10,000 or more. Further information on the prevention of money laundering.

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