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Are gold bars and coins a smart investment this October?

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 4:59 GMT by CBS News
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Gold Bars and Coins: Are They a Smart Investment This October?
An in‑depth look at the latest MSN Money analysis and what it means for the average investor.

1. Why Gold Still Holds the Spotlight

The October edition of MSN Money’s “Are Gold Bars and Coins a Smart Investment?” comes at a time when inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions are keeping a spotlight on safe‑haven assets. The article opens by noting that gold’s allure lies in its dual role as a hedge against currency devaluation and a tangible store of value. It underscores how the recent spike in U.S. Treasury yields and the ongoing unrest in the Middle East have pushed gold prices higher, rekindling interest among both seasoned investors and those new to precious metals.

2. Bars vs. Coins: What’s the Difference?

A significant portion of the piece is devoted to comparing gold bars and gold coins—two of the most common forms of physical gold. The writer explains:

The article notes that while bars tend to have a lower premium over spot price, coins offer a psychological advantage for retail investors because they carry national symbols and are often marketed as “collectibles.” The writer also links to a side‑by‑side comparison page titled “Gold Bars vs. Gold Coins: Which Is Right for You?” that provides visual pricing tables and user reviews.

3. Buying Gold: Where to Start

MSN Money suggests that novice buyers should begin by selecting a reputable dealer—whether an online platform or a local coin shop. The article highlights several factors to watch:

1. Dealer Reputation – Check third‑party reviews and certifications from the American Numismatic Association (ANA).
2. Pricing Transparency – Compare the spot price plus premium and any shipping or handling fees.
3. Security and Insurance – Verify that the dealer offers secure packaging and that the purchase is insured in transit.
4. Payment Flexibility – Look for options like wire transfer, credit card, or cryptocurrency.

The article also references a guide called “How to Verify the Authenticity of Your Gold Purchase” which explains the use of weight, serial numbers, and hallmarks.

4. Costs, Taxes, and the Bottom Line

A key section of the piece addresses the often‑overlooked costs that can erode returns:

• Premiums – Bars typically come with a 5–10 % premium; coins can have 10–20 % premiums depending on mint and rarity.
• Storage Fees – Whether you keep gold at home or in a bank vault, monthly or annual fees apply.
• Tax Treatment – In the U.S., gold is considered a collectible; gains are taxed at a maximum of 28 % rather than the capital‑gain rate of 15–20 %. The article links to the IRS’s “Taxation of Precious Metal Investments” page for detailed guidance.
• Insurance – If you opt for off‑site storage, consider third‑party insurance for additional protection.

The writer underscores that while these costs can be significant, they are often outweighed by the long‑term benefits if the investor’s horizon is 10 years or more.

5. Liquidity and Storage Options

Gold’s liquidity depends largely on the format. The article highlights that a 1‑ounce gold coin can be sold at a reputable dealer in under 48 hours, whereas a 10‑ounce bar may take longer to find a buyer. For storage, the writer mentions three primary options:

1. At‑Home Safe – Suitable for a few ounces; high risk if not insured.
2. Bank Safe Deposit Box – Low risk, but limited access and insurance is not included.
3. Third‑Party Secure Vault – Highest security, but recurring fees and insurance must be factored in.

The article links to a detailed comparison called “Home vs. Third‑Party Gold Storage” that breaks down cost per ounce and risk levels.

6. Market Outlook: What 2024 Looks Like

Using recent data from the World Gold Council, the MSN Money article projects that gold may continue to rally through 2024 if inflation remains stubborn and central banks keep dovish. It cites a “Gold Price Forecast” page that shows a median forecast of a 4 % annual gain. The article also points to a related piece on “Inflation and Gold” which explains how rising consumer prices often lead to a corresponding rise in gold prices.

7. Expert Opinions

The piece features short quotes from a few market analysts:

• John Ramirez, Senior Commodities Analyst: “Gold remains a crucial diversification tool, especially when equities are volatile.”
• Maria Lopez, Portfolio Manager: “For most retail investors, a small allocation—say 5–10 % of the portfolio—provides safety without locking up too much capital.”
• Dr. Emily Tan, Behavioral Economist: “The physicality of gold can satisfy a psychological need for tangibility, but investors should avoid chasing price swings.”

These expert voices help readers weigh the pros and cons of physical gold versus other investment vehicles.

8. Bottom Line: Is Gold Worth It?

MSN Money concludes by summarising the key takeaways:

• Gold can act as a hedge against inflation and geopolitical risk but is not a guaranteed profit generator.
• Bars are cheaper per ounce but less recognizable, while coins command higher premiums but are easier to liquidate.
• Costs matter—premiums, storage, taxes, and insurance can eat into gains.
• Risk tolerance and time horizon are decisive factors; a long‑term investor with a modest allocation may benefit most.

The article encourages readers to carefully research, compare dealers, and consider professional financial advice before committing. For those ready to explore, MSN Money’s partner sites offer a curated list of vetted dealers and a step‑by‑step guide to buying and storing gold.

This summary draws on the full MSN Money feature “Are gold bars and coins a smart investment this October?” and its linked resources, giving you a concise yet comprehensive view of the current gold landscape.