Skip to content

Steven Zehentner Posts

Top Gold IRA Companies

Investing in a Gold IRA can be a smart move. But, you’ve got to choose the right company.

It’s not an easy task, there are numerous options out there. This article will help you decipher the best from the rest, giving you a detailed analysis of the top 5 Gold IRA companies.

Let’s ensure your golden years are truly golden!

Understanding Gold IRAs

Understanding Gold IRAs requires a keen grasp of their unique benefits and potential risks, which can greatly influence your retirement savings strategy.

You’ll find that Gold IRAs offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, providing a safe haven for your hard-earned money. They’re not subject to the same volatility as traditional stock-based IRAs, adding a layer of diversification to your portfolio.

However, it’s crucial to note the potential risks. Gold doesn’t yield dividends or interest, making it a long-term investment, and it relies on the gold market remaining strong. Furthermore, the costs associated with storage and insurance can eat into your returns.

Therefore, it’s imperative to balance these factors when considering a Gold IRA as part of your retirement plan.

Benefits of Investing in Gold

While you’re weighing the pros and cons of Gold IRAs, it’s essential to consider the numerous benefits of investing in gold as well.

Gold is a tangible asset that’s been considered a store of wealth for centuries. Its value doesn’t corrode, unlike paper money or other assets that can depreciate over time.

Moreover, gold tends to perform well during periods of economic instability or inflation, making it a reliable hedge against financial uncertainty. It’s not tied to any particular government or central bank, so it’s less susceptible to political upheavals or policy changes.

Lastly, the demand for gold is universal. From luxury goods to technological applications, its demand persists. This means you can expect your investment to maintain value, even in fluctuating markets.

Assessing Gold IRA Companies

Before you dive into investing with a Gold IRA company, it’s crucial that you know how to assess their credibility and performance. Here’s a 4-step guide to help you:

  1. Check their track record: Look at how long they’ve been in business and what kind of reviews they’ve received. Longevity and positive feedback are good signs.
  2. Assess their transparency: The company should be open about their fees and policies. If they’re reluctant to share information, be wary.
  3. Evaluate their customer service: They should be responsive and willing to answer your queries. Good customer service is an indicator of a company’s reliability.
  4. Examine their precious metals storage options: Secure and insured storage facilities should be provided.

Top 5 Gold IRA Companies

After ensuring you know what to look for in a Gold IRA company, let’s now delve into the top Gold IRA companies you should consider for your investment.

1) Goldco: Known for its exceptional customer service and high ratings, Goldco offers a robust selection of precious metals for you to choose from.

2) Augusta Precious Metals: Augusta stands out with its commitment to education, ensuring you’re fully informed before making any investment decisions.

3) Birch Gold Group: Birch Gold is highly respected for its transparency and its wide array of precious metal offerings.

4) Noble Gold: With its diverse product offerings, Noble Gold provides a high level of flexibility for your investment.

5) Regal Assets: Regal offers a unique, comprehensive service, including both traditional and cryptocurrency options for your IRA.

Consider their reputation, range of products, and customer service when making your choice.

Choosing the Right Gold IRA Company

Even though you’re now aware of the top 5 Gold IRA companies, it’s crucial that you understand how to choose the right one for your specific needs. Here’s a four-step guide to help you make an informed choice:

  1. Reputation: Research each company’s reputation. Look at customer reviews and ratings on trustworthy sites.
  2. Fees: Understand the fee structure. Lower fees don’t necessarily mean better service.
  3. Customer Service: Evaluate the quality of their customer service. Make sure they’re prompt, professional, and knowledgeable.
  4. Storage Options: Determine their storage options. Some companies offer segregated storage, which means your gold is stored separately from others.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gold IRA company isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your choice can greatly influence your financial future.

Consider the benefits of investing in gold and assess the top companies carefully. Whether you opt for GoldCo, Birch Gold Group, or another provider, make sure it aligns with your investment goals and financial needs.

Remember, the right gold IRA company can provide a solid foundation for your retirement savings.…

Comments closed

Precious Metal IRA Rules and Regulations

Are you interested in diversifying your retirement portfolio? One option to consider is a precious metal IRA. In this type of account, you can hold physical precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium as part of your retirement savings.

Understanding the rules and regulations surrounding a precious metal IRA is crucial to ensure compliance and maximize the benefits. This article will provide you with an overview of the key aspects you need to know.

You’ll discover which precious metals are eligible for IRA investments and learn about custodians and storage options available to safeguard your assets.

Additionally, we’ll delve into contribution limits and withdrawal rules that govern these accounts.

Lastly, we’ll explore the tax implications and reporting requirements associated with a precious metal IRA.

By understanding these essential rules and regulations, you can make informed decisions about incorporating precious metals into your retirement strategy.

Understanding a Precious Metal IRA

Understanding a Precious Metal IRA can provide you with an opportunity to diversify your investment portfolio and potentially safeguard against market volatility.

A Precious Metal IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that allows you to invest in physical precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Unlike traditional IRAs that typically limit investments to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, a Precious Metal IRA offers the added benefit of tangible assets.

By holding physical precious metals in your IRA, you can hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. Additionally, precious metals have historically shown resilience during times of financial crisis.

However, it’s important to note that there are rules and regulations governing the acquisition and storage of these metals within an IRA. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly understand these rules before investing in a Precious Metal IRA.

Eligible Precious Metals for IRA Investments

To really get into the groove of investing in a shiny retirement, it’s important to know which sparkly treasures are allowed in your golden nest egg. When it comes to eligible precious metals for IRA investments, there are specific rules and regulations to follow.

The IRS has outlined four main categories of precious metals that can be included in your IRA: gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. However, not all forms of these metals are accepted. For example, only certain types of gold coins and bars meet the criteria.

It’s crucial to do your research and consult with a reputable custodian or financial advisor who specializes in precious metal IRAs to ensure you make compliant choices. By understanding the eligible precious metals for IRA investments, you can confidently build a diversified and valuable portfolio for your retirement years.

Custodians and Storage Options

When it comes to securing your shiny treasures for retirement, you’ll need a custodian and storage options that can keep your investments safe and sound.

When choosing a custodian for your precious metal IRA, make sure they are approved by the IRS and have experience in handling these types of investments. They will be responsible for managing your account and ensuring compliance with all regulations.

As for storage options, there are two main choices: depository storage or home storage. Depository storage is often preferred because it offers high-level security measures such as armed guards, surveillance cameras, and insurance coverage.

Home storage may seem convenient, but it can be risky due to the potential for theft or damage.

Ultimately, the decision between custodians and storage options should be based on your comfort level with risk and the level of security you desire for your precious metals.

Contribution Limits and Withdrawal Rules

Did you know there are specific limits on how much money you can contribute to your retirement account and rules for when you can withdraw it?

When it comes to precious metal IRAs, contribution limits and withdrawal rules play a crucial role. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets the annual contribution limit for IRAs, whether they’re traditional or Roth. For 2021, the limit is $6,000 if you’re under 50 years old and $7,000 if you’re 50 or older. It’s important to note that these limits apply to all types of IRAs combined.

Additionally, there are strict rules governing when and how much you can withdraw from your precious metal IRA without incurring penalties. Generally, withdrawals before age 59½ may be subject to taxes and early withdrawal penalties unless certain exceptions apply.

Tax Implications and Reporting Requirements

Understanding the tax implications and reporting requirements is essential for maximizing the benefits of your retirement account. When it comes to a precious metal IRA, there are certain rules you need to be aware of.

Firstly, any gains made from selling precious metals within your IRA are typically subject to taxes. The type of tax you’ll owe depends on whether your account is a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA. With a traditional IRA, you’ll pay taxes on withdrawals at your regular income tax rate. On the other hand, with a Roth IRA, qualified withdrawals are generally tax-free.

Additionally, when it comes to reporting requirements, it’s crucial to accurately report any transactions involving precious metals held within your IRA to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order to ensure compliance with tax laws and avoid penalties.

Conclusion

So now you know the rules and regulations surrounding a precious metal IRA.

You understand the eligible metals, the custodians and storage options, as well as the contribution limits and withdrawal rules.

It’s important to be aware of the tax implications and reporting requirements that come with this type of investment.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently navigate your precious metal IRA and make informed financial decisions for your future.…

Comments closed

Jack Waters Les Bio Project

Excerpt from 28 minute biography

Steve Zehentner:  Producer, Co-director/editor, Director of Photography

Jack Waters works in all forms of visual, performance and media art. He is a BFA graduate in dance of the Juilliard School. His choreography credits include his Personifications staged for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center Repertory Workshop, and his works created as a founding member of POOL, the choreographer’s collective that was the resident dance company of the legendary Pyramid Club in New York City of the 1980s.

Jack’s films have shown on Sundance Channel, and on PBS. Among Waters recent screenings of note is his video short “Occupy My Ass, Not Iraq” at the Panorama section of the 2007 Berlin International Film Festival. As a journalist he has published articles on politics, cultural affairs, and reviews in visual arts, film, and media. He was a founding contributing writer for both Gay City News, New York City’s LGBT news bi-weekly, and Color Life, the news journal for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and two-spirited people of Color.

Waters and partner Peter Cramer, former co-directors of ABC No Rio, are co founders of Le Petit Versailles, a Green Thumb garden presenting screenings, music, performance, visual art exhibitions, and new media. They are ongoing and frequent collaborators with the Inbred Hybrid Collective, whose mandate is: to stimulate a consciousness of the external factors affecting our human existence. http://alliedproductions.org

The Jack Waters Biography was produced by The Lower East Side Biography Project and was directed and edited by Justin O. Silverman and Steve Zehentner in collaboration with Penny Arcade.

The Lower East Side Biography Project was created in 1999 by performance artist Penny Arcade and video producer Steve Zehentner as an ongoing biography series and oral history archive. The LES Bio Project’s biographies and archive will help to ensure that future generations have access to the mad souls of invention and rebellion that built the Lower East Side’s international reputation as an incubator for authenticity and iconoclasm in art, culture and politics.

The project seeks to stem the tide of cultural amnesia by bridging the cultural gap between long time residents and newcomers to the rapidly gentrifying neighborhood of New York’s Lower East Side. To this end, the LES Bio Project has a community-media training component where young filmmakers are trained in production and post-production technologies and then become shepherds of an individual oral history that they edit into a 28-minute biography. Since its inception, the LES Bio Project has trained over forty individuals, completed forty 28-minute biographies, videotaped dozens more interviews and live events.

The completed biographies are cablecast and streamed live every Monday at 11 p.m EST on Time Warner Cable Channel 34 and on Manhattan Neighborhood Network Community Channel One.
http://www.mnn.org/live/1-community-channel

View the current livestream and cablecast schedule on the project’s Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/LowerEastSideBiographyProject

Comments closed

Lower East Side Biography Project

The Lower East Side of New York City is one of the most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Once known as a mostly Jewish immigrant stronghold, it has now become home to people from all over the world seeking new opportunities in America’s greatest city. From its iconic street art to its rich history, there is something for everyone on the Lower East Side.
This bustling neighborhood continues to draw locals and tourists alike with its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, shops, galleries and more. It may be an old-school part of town but it still remains hip and on trend with some of the best nightlife spots around. Whether you are looking for a slice of pizza or a place to dance the night away, you can find it all here on this unique stretch of Manhattan.
It’s no wonder that so many flock to the Lower East Side: With its fascinating culture and growing reputation as a destination for foodies and partygoers alike, this little corner of NYC offers up plenty for anyone who visits! So get ready to explore one of New York City’s oldest districts – come take a walk through time along the ever-changing streets of The LES!

Cultural Amnesia

The Lower East Side of New York City has a long and rich history, full of stories that have been forgotten or overlooked. This area is an epicenter for cultural amnesia – the loss of memory from one generation to the next.
Various factors contribute to this phenomenon: overcrowding in tenement buildings, immigration trends, urban development projects, gentrification and more. All these elements can lead to displacement of communities and the erasure of memories associated with them. Furthermore, it’s not just physical landmarks that are lost; traditional customs and practices also fade away as newcomers bring their own culture into the mix.
Cultural amnesia creates a sense of identity crisis for those living on the Lower East Side who may feel disconnected from both their ancestral roots and what’s currently happening around them. It’s important to remember our past so we can better understand where we are today and prepare ourselves for tomorrow.

Biographies

Biographies provide an intriguing look at the lives of people who have lived in New York’s Lower East Side. They detail not only their successes, but also their trials and tribulations – giving us a unique insight into the past. From these stories we can gain a better understanding of the cultural amnesia that often takes place when a community changes overtime.
These biographical accounts offer a glimpse of what life was like for individuals living in this bustling metropolis. Through them, we learn about the struggles they faced to make ends meet, as well as their resilience in overcoming adversity. These tales remind us that even amidst great change and upheaval, there are still remarkable individuals with inspiring tales of strength and courage to share.
From these stories, it is clear how deeply rooted our connection to the city’s history truly is; reminding us that culture does not disappear over time, no matter how much it shifts or evolves.

Invention That Built New York City

The Lower East Side of New York City is known for its rich cultural and historical roots. But what many people don’t realize is how much invention has built this bustling metropolis. From the steam engine that revolutionized transportation to advances in steel production, countless inventions have shaped the city we know today.
From early on, entrepreneurs harnessed power from nearby rivers with water wheels and millstones. In the late 1800s, steam engines powered ships along the coastlines while elevators became a safe way to move goods up and down buildings without manual labor. Steel production was also essential as it provided materials for building strong bridges and skyscrapers throughout the city. As technology advanced, so did new possibilities – like electric lights that transformed urban streetscapes at night or telephones that connected everyone far beyond their local surroundings.
Innovation continues to shape our lives in ways both small and large. The legacy of these inventions remains alive in New York City’s vibrant culture and ever-evolving skyline – a testament to human ingenuity over time.
Comments closed