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Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency Tokens & Companies | 2024 Edition

Looking to diversify into gold on the blockchain? With tons of gold-backed cryptocurrencies out there, but, which are the safer options? Read to learn more.

Creditcoin Team

Jan 19, 2024 • 8 min read

Although Bitcoin has been called 'digital gold' by the likes of Cathie Wood, CEO of Ark Invest, there is another digital gold out there in a very real sense: gold-backed cryptocurrencies.

For those looking to own tokenized assets, these precious metal backed tokens are one of the best options to consider.

By combining the timeless value of gold with the cutting-edge innovation of cryptocurrency, these assets offer a unique blend of stability and growth potential.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about gold-backed cryptocurrency and how it works.
Understand the difference between Bitcoin and gold-backed cryptocurrency.
Discover the top trusted companies that issue gold-backed cryptocurrencies.

What Is a Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency?

Gold-backed cryptocurrencies are tokens designed to represent a specific amount of physical gold holdings in a digitalized format, which also can be redeemed by the holders whenever needed.

Each token is typically pegged to a specific weight in gold, such as one gram per token, ensuring its value is based on the tangible commodity price of gold rather than purely speculative factors.

These tokens offer a unique investment option by combining the stability of gold with the innovation of digital currencies. Reducing the high volatility often associated with most cryptocurrencies. Gold's relative price stability provides a safer investment alternative, allowing for portfolio diversification with less risk.

Oftentimes, the sole purpose of gold investment is to safeguard a portfolio from a potential collapse of the US Dollar or the potential forthcoming of the BRIC currencies replacing the US Dollar.

The operation of gold-backed cryptos is straightforward: a designated amount of gold is securely stored, and an equivalent number of crypto tokens is issued. Transparency is crucial, with reputable issuers providing regular audits and proof of gold reserves.

Transactions with gold-backed cryptos are conducted on blockchain technology, ensuring secure, immutable records of ownership and transfers. This feature, along with lower operational costs compared to physical gold handling, makes them appealing for global investments.

Investors benefit from the ease of transferring these digital assets internationally, bypassing the complexities of physical gold logistics.

Is Bitcoin a Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency?

Bitcoin, often referred to as 'digital gold', shares characteristics with gold such as scarcity and the ability to hedge against inflation. However, it differs fundamentally from gold-backed cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin's value isn't tied to any physical assets but is driven by market demand, investor interest, and its limited supply.

Even the SEC came out and publicly claimed that Bitcoin isn't digital gold!

Its decentralization and popularity don't change the fact that Bitcoin operates on a different principle than gold-backed digital currencies. As a standalone asset, Bitcoin's value fluctuates with market speculation, leading to price volatility. This can be off-putting for investors seeking the stability associated with gold.

In contrast, gold-backed cryptocurrencies appeal to those who value the stability of precious metals. Their value is directly linked to physical gold, making them less vulnerable to market volatility and offering investors an additional layer of security and trust.

While catering to different investor needs, Bitcoin and gold-backed cryptocurrencies both contribute to the diversity of digital assets. Bitcoin offers growth potential and independence from traditional assets, while gold-backed cryptos provide a more conservative option with a tangible asset connection for those seeking a digital equivalent to physical gold.

How Do Gold-Backed Cryptocurrencies Work?

Gold-backed cryptocurrencies blend the digital nature of cryptocurrencies with the stable value of gold. Each token or coin is equivalent to a specific weight in gold, usually an ounce or a fraction. The issuer maintains gold reserves in secure vaults, backing the digital tokens physically.

Ownership verification is key in this process. When someone buys gold-backed cryptocurrency, they effectively own a portion of the issuer's gold reserve. Transactions use blockchain technology, ensuring transparency, security, and an immutable record of ownership.

The operation of gold-backed cryptocurrencies typically involves these steps:

A buyer acquires a gold-backed crypto coin or token.
The transaction is verified and recorded on the blockchain ledger.
An equivalent amount of gold is allocated in the holder's name.
These tokens can be traded like any other cryptocurrency.
Holders can redeem tokens for physical gold or its cash equivalent, based on the issuer's terms.

A crucial aspect is the auditing of gold reserves. Reputable issuers conduct regular third-party audits to verify that the gold reserves correspond to the number of issued tokens, maintaining credibility and investor confidence.

Process Step	Action Taken
Purchase	Buyer acquires gold-backed tokens equivalent to gold weight
Blockchain Verification	Transaction is added to a decentralized ledger
Gold Allocation	Gold matched to the token amount is reserved
Transaction Conduct	Tokens bought, sold, or traded as other cryptos
Redemption	Tokens exchanged for gold or cash value

Gold-backed cryptocurrencies are appealing because they offer a tangible, stable, and easily redeemable digital investment.

They are especially suitable for investors seeking the convenience of digital assets combined with a conservative investment strategy.

Cryptocurrency vs. Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrencies represent a new era in digital finance, being decentralized and independent of central banks or governments. They rely on blockchain technology, offering anonymity and security to users.

However, the significant volatility of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, influenced by factors like market sentiment and regulatory news, can deter investors due to unpredictable prices and uncertain returns.

Gold-backed cryptocurrencies address this issue by linking digital tokens to physical gold reserves, bringing stability to the investment. Gold's inherent value and scarcity provide a balance, combining the benefits of digital assets with the reliability of a tangible asset, thus mitigating the drastic price swings common in traditional cryptocurrencies.

Key Points:

Cryptocurrencies: Decentralized with high volatility and market-driven value.
Gold-Backed Cryptocurrencies: Stabilized by gold reserves, offering reduced volatility and tangible asset backing.

Gold-backed cryptocurrencies appeal to those interested in blockchain's advantages but are cautious of the risks of typical cryptocurrencies. They offer the benefits of digital assets, such as quick transactions and borderless transfer, while incorporating gold's protective qualities.

This reassurance is bolstered by the essential auditing process, where regular third-party audits verify the backing of tokens by gold reserves, enhancing transparency and trust.

Both traditional and gold-backed cryptocurrencies leverage technology to innovate finance, maintaining transaction integrity and security through blockchain. While catering to different investor needs, they both contribute to shaping the financial landscape, whether backed by algorithms or physical gold.

List of Trusted Companies Issuing Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency

If you're interested in gaining exposure to actual gold without the challenges of physical management or investing in an ETF, consider exploring established gold-backed cryptocurrency companies.

These companies offer digital tokens backed by physical gold reserves, providing a convenient and innovative way to invest in gold:

#1: Tether Operations Limited

Tether Operations Limited, renowned for its leading stablecoin USDT, which is pegged to the US dollar, has diversified its offerings by introducing a gold-backed cryptocurrency, XAUT.

Each XAUT token corresponds to one troy ounce of gold on a London Good Delivery bar. This approach allows holders of XAUT to enjoy the convenience and efficiency of cryptocurrency transactions while maintaining ownership of physical gold.

Tether guarantees that the gold backing XAUT is fully allocated, providing transparency and reinforcing investor trust in the digital asset.

Website: https://gold.tether.to/

#2: Paxos Trust Company

Paxos Trust Company offers PAX Gold (PAXG), a digital token backed by physical gold. Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of gold stored in London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) vaults. Owning PAXG is akin to having rights to the physical gold held in custody by Paxos.

This setup combines the advantages of physical gold ownership with the efficiency of blockchain technology.

Paxos, a regulated entity by the New York State Department of Financial Services, ensures security, regular audits, and the option to redeem tokens for physical gold or its cash equivalent.

Website: https://paxos.com/paxgold/

#3: Meld Gold

Meld Gold is an innovative company in the precious metals market, focusing on modernizing gold transactions through blockchain technology. Their platform connects gold suppliers, buyers, and vault services, facilitating immediate and seamless transactions.

Meld Gold supports the entire gold supply chain, offering a reliable platform for investors and industry partners. It integrates with various apps in the Algorand ecosystem, enhancing accessibility and utility in the digital gold market.

Website: https://www.meld.gold/

#4: Kinesis Money

Kinesis Money offers KAU, a digital currency backed by gold. Each KAU represents one gram of fine gold stored in audited vaults. This digital currency combines the benefits of gold's inherent value with the utility of a digital asset, allowing for trading, earning, and making payments in physical gold globally.

Kinesis emphasizes the ease of owning gold without storage or insurance fees, and the KAU's value is derived from the global aggregation of physical gold bullion costs.

Website: https://kinesis.money/gold/

The Challenges with Gold-Backed Cryptocurrency

While gold-backed cryptocurrencies offer an innovative blend of technology and timeless value, investors must navigate a complex landscape of challenges.

Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, which often trade on numerous exchanges, gold-backed tokens can face liquidity hurdles due to their physical backing, potentially slowing down trade execution times and leading to wider bid-ask spreads.

Liquidity: These tokens may not be as liquid as traditional cryptocurrencies, potentially leading to slower trades and wider bid-ask spreads.
Storage and Security: Securing the physical gold that backs these digital assets can be costly, affecting the asset's profitability and pricing. Trusting custodians to hold the gold adds risk.
Regulatory Compliance: Varying international regulations adds complexity, requiring adherence to audits, anti-money laundering policies, and other legal requirements.
Market Volatility: Despite gold's stability, the value of these cryptocurrencies can fluctuate with gold market prices.
Scalability: The finite nature of gold can limit the scalability of these cryptocurrencies, affecting liquidity and market growth.

Investors are therefore advised to perform due diligence and understand the intricacies of gold-backed cryptocurrencies before engaging with these digital assets.

The innovation potential is vast, but so is the need for informed decision-making when it comes to investment in this hybrid asset class.