I don't know, maybe I'm old fashioned on this matter but, for me, the obvious advantage of precious metals is that they are hard assets. Even if the company holds your gold and you can legally withdraw it, it loses its appeal being an internet based asset. Countlessly (new word here?) better than conventional bank emitted paper gold, but still not solid enough for me! If I'm holding precious metals, it is mainly for the "when shit hits the fan" kinda situation, aint it? But Hey, I could be wrong!