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How specie insurance can protect your assets amid uncertainty

Discover how specie insurance can protect your assets amid economic uncertainty. Learn about the rising demand for precious metals like gold and silver as safe-haven investments.

11/02/2025 · 2 minute read

Precious metals, particularly gold, have been widely regarded as safe-haven investments during periods of economic or geopolitical instability. Recent announcements by several countries regarding proposed tariffs, along with their potential economic and inflationary impacts, has reportedly prompted certain banks and financial institutions to transport gold to the US as they seek to mitigate tariff risks and capture higher prices.

The intrinsic value of gold and silver is recognized globally, and they are therefore viewed as reliable hedges against currency fluctuations and market volatility. As investors look to safeguard their wealth, the demand for physical gold and silver tends to increase. This heightened demand is reflected in gold prices, which recently reached their highest level on record in February 2025. Since December 2024, 12.2 million troy ounces of gold have been delivered to COMEX-approved warehouses, raising stocks there by 70%. Moreover, the minimum waiting time to load gold out of the Bank of England has now reached four weeks, whereas release times had earlier been a few days.

How a specie policy can help protect your assets

Precious metals require insurance at all points, from mined ore to refineries, as well as during transportation and storage. Common causes of loss for all forms of specie include theft (particularly employee infidelity), physical loss, or damage. With many possible risks to consider, selecting the appropriate coverage is essential. A specie policy is typically the most suitable cover for these assets due to the nature of the coverage it provides.

Given the current dynamics, many organizations are seeking increased specie coverage with greater limits and covering more assets. Currently, the reported Lloyd’s market capacity for specie stands at approximately US$3.5 billion — a level reflecting ample capacity and pricing competition.

Marsh’s specie team is one of the largest in this sector, bringing extensive experience in designing and placing policies for our clients, and providing an entry point to additional risk management advice and brokerage capabilities from across Marsh.

Our offerings include insurance facilities that are capable of providing up to US$1.25 billion of capacity for any one risk. Greater limits of insurance can be attractive to those desiring greater peace of mind during this uncertain period.

To learn more about our capabilities, please reach out to your Marsh advisor

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Paul Martin

Paul Martin

Head of Cash in Transit and General Specie, Specie - FINPRO

  • United Kingdom

Adam Bennie

Adam Bennie

Vice president, Specie - FINPRO

  • United Kingdom