Diving into the world of online precious metal purchases can feel like a maze, with countless companies showcasing vast arrays of products and services. It's easy to get lost in the sea of options, wondering where the real value lies. To simplify things, we decided to investigate one particular company, hoping to shed light on whether they're worth our investment. Here's what we unearthed.
Texas Precious Metals started its venture into gold, silver, and platinum sales in May 2011. However, its parent entity, Kaspar Texas Traditions LLC., had already planted its roots in 2004. A 16-year stint in the industry speaks volumes about its stability and trustworthiness. From our research, it runs as a private entity, though we're yet to get an outright confirmation.
But they don't just stop at selling metals. Their offerings extend to underground category 2 and 3 safekeeping and brief storage solutions for their patrons across three key North American repositories. Here's something reassuring: every customer's treasure gets its own space, ensuring no mix-ups. Every deposit is safeguarded by Lloyds of London, and on top of that, the facility assumes responsibility. An external audit, run by an agency from San Antonio, keeps things transparent every year.
In our quest for clarity, we've jotted down some points to ponder whether they're our go-to choice.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Texas Precious Metals
Benefits
- Recognized with an A+ grade by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2011.
- Their online Amazon shop boasts a stellar 97 per cent lifetime positivity score.
- Provide temporary vaulting solutions.
- Overseas storage opportunities in the Cayman Islands.
- Guarantee free delivery within a three-day window post-payment.
- Shipping includes complimentary coverage.
- Full transparency in their pricing - openly sharing both purchase and sale rates.
- Items not in their inventory need to be put up for purchase.
- Their markup is more affordable compared to many competitors.
- Multiple payment methods are welcomed: Visa, Mastercard, ACH, and bank transfers.
- They operate without a sales team and refrain from pestering their patrons.
Drawbacks
- Some patrons believe their pricing can be steep.
- Reports of occasional delayed deliveries.
- Sporadic grievances regarding subpar customer interactions.
- E-checks (ACH) aren't valid for transactions exceeding $25,000.
- Payments via cashier's checks, written bank drafts, or money orders arena should be entertained.
- Cancellation incurs a $350 charge, which can escalate if product value diminishes.
Many individuals opt to transit IRA or 401K into assets backed by gold, and this company facilitates that transition seamlessly. While the procedure might seem daunting, they guide you meticulously at every stage. Collaborating with specialized associate firms, they ensure that all dealings adhere to governmental norms, safeguarding the legality of every transaction. Your investments will be protected in a chosen depository, but it requires a nod from the associated partner overseeing the transition. Given that these are retirement funds, federal oversight is stringent.
Should you wish to shift your metallic assets offshore, they extend storage services in the Cayman Islands at the Strategic Wealth Preservation (SWP) facility. This site mirrors the amenities of their North American counterparts, even offering storage for IRA-based precious metal transitions. Those keen on diversifying assets across borders would find SWP to be ideal. This state-of-the-art class 3 vault ensures complete allocation and separation. Additionally, safekeeping boxes are available, and with a day's heads-up, you can quickly inspect your holdings. Texas Precious Metals will manage every detail for you.
Unmasking the Truth: Texas Precious Metals - Genuine or Scam?
In our digital quest to understand the landscape of precious metal merchants, we stumbled upon a myriad of vocal customers – both disgruntled and satisfied. Their candid feedback clearly showed what one should sidestep when choosing a bullion dealer. Considering the vast options available, we aimed to determine this company's standing among its peers.
To evaluate its legitimacy, we based our assessment on six pivotal criteria, though your checklist might be longer depending on your individual preferences. Here are the key factors guiding our judgment:
A Tangible Presence, Perhaps?
Imagine buying precious metals and then having the opportunity to visit the store, interact with the staff, and get a firsthand experience. Texas Precious Metals proudly stands in Shiner, Texas, just along Route 95. A quick call to prearrange a visit, and you can collect your items in person. Remember, a day's notice is recommended. This physical presence is a commendable asset for the firm.
Price Transparency - A Reality?
Their online portal is a trove of up-to-date pricing for all available products, complemented by a real-time tracker for global gold, silver, and platinum rates. An added feature is their historical price graphs since 1992, including benchmarks like the Dow, S&P, and the US dollar.
How Versatile are their Payment Methods?
Their diverse payment suite accommodates ACH for purchases below $25,000, wire transfers, and card payments via Visa and Mastercard. Cash payments? Only in-store. Depending on your purchase size, the optimal payment method may vary. Their payment structure aligns well with industry standards.
Feedback from Prior Customers?
Our analysis reveals a commendable 4.48/5 star rating. While some customers expressed minor grievances, such as the lack of specific payment options or slight shipping delays, the general sentiment was positive.
Track Record: How Experienced Are They?
Their 'About Us' section boasts an impressive half a billion in sales, over 42,000 deliveries spanning all states, and a top rank on Amazon for precious metals. In 2015, Inc. magazine highlighted them as the 200th "fastest-growing private company in America". Quite the accolade!
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Awareness of Associated Risks?
Their detailed disclaimer and policy sections are upfront about the speculative nature of coin and bullion investments. They emphasize market volatility and recommend a 3 to 5-year holding period for potential gains. Texas Precious Metals prioritizes educating its customers about the intricacies of metal investments.
Moreover, they're staunch advocates for legal compliance, strictly adhering to Federal anti-money laundering regulations. Cash transactions are capped at $10,000 annually per household. Their rigorous protocols align with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and the USA Patriot Act to combat financial misdemeanours and support anti-terrorism efforts.
From our comprehensive review, it's clear that Texas Precious Metals has cemented its reputation as a trustworthy and reliable entity in the industry. While occasional hiccups are reported, the overarching feedback across various platforms, including Amazon and Reseller Ratings, underscores a consistent satisfaction among its clientele. Their offerings seem genuine, backed by a track record that speaks volumes.
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