Is Gold a Good Investment? Expert Guide on Gold Buying and Scam Prevention

Inside the Episode: The Truth About Gold Investing & Scams Expert Financial Analysis on Gold as a Safe Haven by David Angway, RFP.

[0:00] – Introduction: Why people are drawn to the gold buy-and-sell market.

[0:45] – The Safe Haven Asset: Gold as a hedge against inflation and geopolitics.

[2:15] – The Psychology of Greed: Why victims fall for "too good to be true" gold deals. [3:50] – Red Flag #1: Unrealistic discounts on raw gold or jewelry.

[5:30] – Red Flag #2: Refusal of face-to-face transactions or "Face-to-Pay."

[7:10] – The Anatomy of a Gold Scam: How fraudsters manipulate buyers through social media.

[9:45] – Due Diligence: How to verify the authenticity of gold before you pay.

[12:15] – Risk Management: Why physical gold requires secure storage and insurance.

[14:30] – Final Verdict: Is gold a good investment for you in 2026?

[16:00] – Contact & Resources: How to reach David Angway for wealth protection advice.

The Discussion: Gold as a Safe Haven and Scam Protection

Introduction: In times of global uncertainty and rising inflation, many Filipinos turn to gold. However, with high demand comes high risk. David Angway, RFP, discusses the historical performance of gold and how to avoid falling victim to sophisticated "buy-and-sell" scams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Jacob: Why are so many people attracted to buying and selling gold jewelry right now?

David Angway: The demand for gold remains steady, especially when there are geopolitical issues or global instability. People flock to gold because it is a "safe haven" asset. Most importantly, it serves as a hedge against inflation. Historically, gold prices are consistent and tend to rise over the long term.

Jacob: What kind of returns has gold provided historically?

David Angway: If you look at the last 50 years, the average rate of return for gold is equivalent to about 8% annually. We’ve seen massive "blow-ups" in value, such as in the 1970s when it increased by 30%, and between 2008 and 2011 when it saw a 20% increase. This consistent growth is why it is viewed as a premier investment.

Jacob: How does gold jewelry specifically work as an investment?

David Angway: When you buy gold jewelry, it isn't just an accessory; it's a store of value. Unlike other items that depreciate, the raw value of the gold in your jewelry stays relevant to market prices. If you hold it for a long period, the appreciation can be significant.

Jacob: What are the "Red Flags" of a gold scam that buyers should look out for?

David Angway: Scammers often use social media platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp to lure victims. Here are the primary red flags:

• Refusal of "Face-to-Face" Transactions: If the seller refuses to meet in person or perform a "Face-to-Pay" transaction (kaliwaan), walk away.

• Pressure for Down Payments: Scammers often ask for a 50% to 80% down payment before you even see the item.

• Too Good to be True Prices: If the discount is unrealistic compared to current market rates, it is likely a trap.

• Lack of Peace of Mind: If the transaction feels rushed or secretive, your intuition is likely right.

Jacob: What should someone do if they suspect they are being scammed?

David Angway: First, do your "homework." Double-check the account and the seller's reputation. If you’ve already been targeted, report the account to the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) or the cybercrime unit. Unfortunately, in the Philippines, it is very difficult to recover funds once they are sent to a scammer, as they often block you immediately.

Jacob: What is your final advice for those looking to invest in gold?

David Angway: Always ensure "Kaliwaan" (simultaneous exchange). Don't release your hard-earned money until the gold is in your hands and verified. If an investment doesn't give you peace of mind, it’s not the right investment for you.

Clean Takeaways for Gold Investors

• Gold is a Long-Term Hedge: Use gold to protect your wealth against inflation, but expect an average long-term return of around 8%.

• Verify Before You Pay: Never send down payments to unverified sellers online. Legitimate gold deals should allow for physical inspection.

• The "Face-to-Pay" Rule: Only transact through simultaneous exchange to ensure you don't lose your capital to a ghost seller.

• Watch the Geopolitics: Gold demand spikes during international conflict; be wary of "hype" sellers during these times.

• Consult the Pros: If you are moving large amounts of capital into gold, consult a financial planner to see how it fits into your overall portfolio.

For expert wealth management and investment verification, visit davidangway.com.