What do you have for gold (ETf, physical)?

[metta2006]

I hold physical gold (about 8% of my portfolio). I need to bring it up to 25%. What would be the best way to do this? If I buy physical gold at a store, I will have to provide my ID to the store if it is over $3K. So I am reluctant to buy more than one oz each time. Should I buy GLD for the rest?
Also, if I buy all physical gold, it would be much harder to reblanace because I will loose too much on premiums.
How do you reblanace physical gold?
I've been buying 1oz bars because it was cheaper but is there a good case for coins?
What do you think of holding physical gold in RSP through Questrade? It gets expensive when you deliver it.

Thanks!

[6 Iron]

I hold physical gold (about 8% of my portfolio). I need to bring it up to 25%. What would be the best way to do this? If I buy physical gold at a store, I will have to provide my ID to the store if it is over $3K. So I am reluctant to buy more than one oz each time. Should I buy GLD for the rest?
Also, if I buy all physical gold, it would be much harder to reblanace because I will loose too much on premiums.
How do you reblanace physical gold?
I've been buying 1oz bars because it was cheaper but is there a good case for coins?
What do you think of holding physical gold in RSP through Questrade? It gets expensive when you deliver it.

Thanks!

Metta, welcome to the board. Many of us hold a portion of our gold in tax advantaged accounts in an ETF, to avoid tax issues when rebalancing. I would strongly recommend reading the gold FAQ that is stickied at the top of the gold subsection of this forum. But briefly, most of us prefer holding bullion coins (e.g., eagles, maple leafs, etc) over bars as they are more liquid,and more recognized.  Cannot help you with Questrade.

[jco]

Why would you show your ID? Go to a different store that asks fewer questions. Tell em your sweet grandpappy bequeathed them unto you.... Not that you shouldn't pay taxes, of course, that would be the worst kind of wrong.

I'd go for 1 oz govt minted coins (as outlined in the Gold FAQ). I, and everyone else, knows and is comfortable with govt mintage. If I see a random slab, with "Willard's House of Mintin' Gold" stamped on it, I might have some questions or reservations.

Holding 20-35% gold in ETF is a good idea for easier rebalancing in my mind.

[metta2006]

Vancouver bullion & exchange has the policy that requires a photo ID if the amount is over 3K. This company is reputable. Is it still not a good idea to buy 1oz bars from them? I keep the receipts. Would it be harder to sell than coins? I have bought PAMP and Pert minth. Thanks.

[steve]

I have pamp 1oz bars that I bought from a local reputable dealer in my area that has been in buisness since 1967. I keep the receipt as well. Buying coins are good also. I also hold GTU for rebalance purposes and for the tax benefits it provides for someone who is mostly a taxable investor. There are alot of places that you can sell pamp swiss bars, but it is easier to rebalance with an etf or a closed end fund like GTU of PHYS. When I buy physical gold I like to walk into the store and walk out with the gold. I would rather pay extra then do it over the internet. If you are a taxable investor there is some paperwork that you need to file with your income tax if you use the closed end funds.
My local dealer is
http://www.williamyoungerman.com/