Understanding the Gold IRA Industry
The precious metals IRA space has good actors and bad actors. Here's what we've learned about identifying the difference and protecting yourself as an investor.
Why This Information Matters
The Gold IRA industry exists in a regulatory gray area. While the IRS has clear rules about what can go into a precious metals IRA, there's less oversight on the sales and marketing practices of the dealers themselves.
This creates an environment where some companies use aggressive tactics - fear-based marketing, pressure selling, and opaque fee structures - to push investors into decisions they might regret. Understanding what to look for helps you separate legitimate companies from problematic ones.
We've compiled information from public records, customer reviews across platforms, BBB complaint histories, and industry research to help you evaluate companies before making a decision.
Gold Price Context
Gold Price vs. Purchasing Power (Indexed)
Source: MacroTrends & BLS Data (1971-2025). Normalized for comparison.
Note: Companies that use market volatility to create artificial urgency ("Buy now before it's too late!") are using a common pressure tactic. Gold prices fluctuate; that's normal. Don't let fear of missing out drive your investment decisions.
What We Look For
Fee Transparency Check
Target: All Reviewed Companies
We verify whether companies publish their fee structures upfront or require phone calls to get pricing. Transparent companies tell you what you'll pay before you sign anything.
BBB Complaint History
Target: Industry-Wide
BBB complaints reveal patterns. One complaint could be a misunderstanding. Dozens of similar complaints suggest systemic issues. We track these patterns over time.
Custodian & Storage Verification
Target: All Reviewed Companies
IRA metals must be held by approved custodians in approved depositories. We verify these relationships exist and that segregated storage is available when advertised.
Sales Approach Analysis
Target: Industry-Wide
Education-focused companies explain the pros AND cons of precious metals investing. High-pressure operations focus on fear and urgency. The difference is usually obvious within the first call.
The Regal Assets Case Study
Nothing illustrates the importance of due diligence better than the Regal Assets collapse. Once one of the most-recommended companies in the industry with thousands of positive reviews, Regal Assets appears to have ceased operations, leaving customers unable to contact anyone about their accounts.
The lesson: past performance and reviews aren't guarantees. Current BBB standing, verified storage arrangements, and transparent business practices matter more than marketing hype or celebrity endorsements.