FAQs about Commodity Investing and Precious Metals

Questions about investing in gold and other metals

1. What is the long-term outlook for gold?
A. It is often said that gold is the only currency that is not at the same time some government’s liability; it is a commodity that derives intrinsic value due in part to its relative scarcity, industry practitioners believe that the long-term view for gold remains favorable based on their long-term outlook for the continued threat of inflation in all major currencies.

2. When will I receive a statement of my holdings?
A. You will receive a confirmation investment statement at the time of purchase and a monthly statement showing your metals account balances.

3. Can I take physical possession of my metals?
A. Yes. Physical possession can be arranged with applicable shipping fees. You can take physical possession of your metals in New York or London but it requires additional fabrication and delivery charges. Please contact a Empire broker or representative at 212-742-8412.

4. How are our precious metals stored such as gold and silver?
A. SECURED STORAGE OR DELIVERY: All precious metals are held and stored in London Metal Exchange, NYMEX and or COMEX approved depository vaults. Unencumbered holdings can be delivered anywhere in the world (with applicable shipping fees).

5. How much of your commodity investment can be financed?
A. FINANCING: Is available based upon holdings and can be between 5% and 80% of the current market value. (Minimum finance amount is $10,000).

6. What are the minimum starting equity levels?
A. EQUITY: Between 20% and 100% of the specific commodity market value.

7. What are the minimum maintenance equity levels?
A. EQUITY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT: Between 10% and 25% of the market value.

8. What are the fees and charges on my account?
A. CHARGES: Aside from an administrative expense included in the initial purchase and a one-time $250 account-opening fee, all costs and depository and ancillary charges are borne by the company. Interest, if any accrues in the client’s account and is based on the collateralized financing balance.

9. Is there interest charged on my precious metals investment account?
A. INTEREST: Interest rate on the financed amount is reasonable and globally competitive (approximately 4.5% over prime rate.)

10. When can I sell my holdings?
A. LIQUIDITY: Positions are completely liquid (all or in part) during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. Upon prior agreement and under emergency conditions, it may be possible to liquidate positions during times earlier than normal business hours (9am to 5pm).