Gold prices have surged dramatically over the past couple of years, with valuations roughly doubling. But holding physical gold isn't just about the price—you're also wrestling with storage fees, insurance premiums, and tax implications.

So what's the most practical move here?

If you're thinking traditional route: allocated gold accounts through custodians work, but you're paying custody charges and insurance stacks up. Physical vaults? Even more expensive, especially if you're storing significant quantities. The tax angle matters too—depending on where you live, some jurisdictions hit you harder on capital gains.

For those already in crypto circles, there's another layer to consider: how does this fit into your broader asset allocation strategy? Gold's been a hedge against volatility, but liquidity matters. Some storage methods let you move quickly; others lock you in for weeks.

The real question: are you paying more in fees and taxes than you're gaining from the price appreciation? Worth running the numbers before you lock in your position.