PHYS — Sprott Physical Gold Trust
PHYS is a physically backed gold trust from Sprott Asset Management, stored in the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa, Canada. A key differentiating feature of PHYS is that qualified holders can redeem shares for physical gold directly from the Mint. Additionally, some long-term US investors may qualify for long-term capital gains treatment (rather than the 28% collectibles rate) on PHYS held for over a year, though tax circumstances vary. Sprott is a respected name in physical precious metals.
Top Holdings
Strategy
- →Use when physical redemption option or potential LT capital gains treatment is important to you
- →Hold as Canadian-vaulted gold alongside US-vaulted alternatives for jurisdictional diversification
- →Consult tax advisor about whether PHYS qualifies for non-collectibles capital gains treatment
- →Include in a precious metals sleeve for those who value Royal Canadian Mint custody
Best For
- ✓Investors who may want the option to redeem shares for physical gold delivery
- ✓Those seeking Canadian custody as an alternative to US and Swiss vaulted options
- ✓Tax-sensitive investors who want to explore potential LT capital gains treatment advantages
- ✓Sprott fans who trust the firm's precious metals expertise and custody arrangements
Key Risks
- ⚠Higher expense ratio (0.35%) than GLDM (0.10%), IAU (0.25%), and SGOL (0.17%)
- ⚠Tax treatment may vary — consult a tax advisor before assuming LT capital gains applies
- ⚠Smaller AUM means potentially wider bid-ask spreads vs. GLD or IAU
- ⚠Physical redemption requires meeting specific minimum thresholds and procedures
Similar ETFs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I actually get physical gold from PHYS?
Yes, qualified holders can redeem PHYS shares for physical gold directly from the Royal Canadian Mint, subject to minimum thresholds and procedures. This physical redemption option distinguishes PHYS from most competitors. This is educational content, not financial advice.
Is PHYS taxed differently than GLD?
Some US investors holding PHYS long-term may qualify for long-term capital gains tax rates rather than the 28% collectibles rate that typically applies to GLD and IAU. This potential tax advantage depends on individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified tax advisor. This is educational content, not financial advice.
Where is PHYS's gold stored?
PHYS stores its gold at the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa, Canada. The Mint is a Canadian Crown Corporation and one of the most secure precious metals custodians in the world. This is educational content, not financial advice.
Is PHYS more expensive than GLD?
PHYS charges 0.35% versus GLD's 0.40% — PHYS is slightly cheaper. However, GLDM (0.10%), IAU (0.25%), and SGOL (0.17%) are all cheaper than PHYS. This is educational content, not financial advice.
Does PHYS pay dividends?
No, PHYS holds physical gold which generates no income. Returns come entirely from gold price movements. This is educational content, not financial advice.
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