# Physical Gold Custody

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<summary><strong>Where is the gold underlying XAUm held and by whom?</strong></summary>

The physical gold backing XAUm tokens is securely stored in vaults located in Singapore and Hong Kong. These vaults are managed by Brink’s, global leader in secure logistics and asset protection.&#x20;

Official press release can be found [here](https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/matrixdock-partners-with-brinks-for-global-rwa-custody-starting-with-gold-302304215.html).

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<summary><strong>Why partner with Brink’s and Malca Amit?</strong></summary>

Matrixdock partners with Brink’s, one of four security carriers officially recognized and approved by LBMA, for physical custody of gold underlying XAUm. To enhance risk mitigation and ensure operational redundancy, Matrixdock is also in discussions with Malca Amit as a backup provider.

You can find the official LBMA member list [here](https://www.lbma.org.uk/market-standards/vaulting). Both Brink’s and Malca Amit operate high-quality vaults worldwide, which supports XAUm’s potential for expanding redemption locations in the future.

The sections below delve into the background of Brink’s and Malca Amit, focusing on two key aspects: (1) their security credentials and (2) their commitment to asset transparency within the LBMA ecosystem. LBMA’s industry-leading management practices not only bolster asset value but also ensure liquidity and protection of value during liquidation scenarios.

**Brink’s**

The Brink’s Company, founded in 1859, is a global leader in secure logistics and cash management services. Brink’s operates in over 100 countries, providing services such as secure transportation, ATM services, and vaulting. The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BCO.&#x20;

Brink’s has a long-standing reputation for reliability and security, serving a diverse clientele that includes financial institutions, retailers, government agencies, and jewellers. Its extensive experience and global presence underscore its commitment to safeguarding valuable assets worldwide.

_Security Credentials_

Brink’s adheres to rigorous security protocols and global industry standards, supported by certifications such as:

* ISO 9001:2015
* ISO 14001:2015
* ISO 45001:2018

Security certifications for Brink's in Hong Kong and Singapore are not publicly shared and specific certifications may vary by region.

_Industry Memberships_

Brink’s is a full member of London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and Singapore Bullion Market Association (SBMA). The memberships underscore the Group's commitment to industry standards and active participation in developing the global bullion market.&#x20;

Learn more about Brink’s [here](https://brinksglobal.com/).

**Malca Amit**

Malca Amit, established in 1963, is a premier provider of secure logistics and storage solutions for high-value assets, including diamonds, jewelry, precious metals, and fine art. Operating across a global network, Malca-Amit offers services such as secure transportation, customs brokerage, vaulting facilities, and specialized operations.

_Security Credentials_

Malca Amit is committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and quality, notable certifications include:

* ISO 9001
* ISO 27001

These certifications affirm the company’s dedication to operational excellence and the safeguarding of client information.

_Industry Memberships_

Malca-Amit is a full member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), reflecting its adherence to the highest standards in the global bullion market. Additionally, the company’s facilities are authorized by members of the London Clearing Company and have LBMA approval for the weighing and inspecting of precious metals.

For more information about Malca-Amit’s services and global network, please visit their [official website.](https://www.malca-amit.com/)

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<summary><strong>Are there insurance policies covering the vaulted gold?</strong></summary>

Brink’s provides comprehensive insurance coverage for gold stored in their vaults, protecting against risks such as theft, damage, or loss.&#x20;

As of Nov 29 2024, the insurance provides coverage up to US$50M.

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<summary><strong>How can investors verify the gold backing XAUm?</strong></summary>

Matrixdock ensures transparency through monthly asset statements and LBMA refinery invoices, verifying the existence and authenticity of the gold reserves backing XAUm tokens. Additionally, Matrixdock partners with Bureau Veritas to perform quarterly audits, confirming both the quantity and quality of the reserves.

All relevant data is recorded publicly on the Ethereum blockchain, providing investors with additional transparency and full immutability, enabling independent verification of their digital asset backing.

Matrixdock also offers management of sub-accounts for customers with substantial XAUm holdings, provided they meet identity verification standards. This service includes the option for on-site inspections and asset verification to ensure transparency and trust.

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<summary><strong>If key counterparties face a major crisis leading to bankruptcy, how would Matrixdock handle the situation?</strong></summary>

Matrixdock has implemented multiple bankruptcy safeguards in XAUm, ensuring investor trust and protection in minting, holding, and redeeming the token.

**Protection from Matrixport bankruptcy**

Following STBT’s innovative bankruptcy-remote design, XAUm is also issued under a special purpose trust model. This separates the token issuer from asset custodianship, protecting gold assets from creditor claims in the event of Matrixdock’s insolvency. Matrixdock works with Appleby Global Services (trustee) and Hamilton Services (enforcer), renowned independent trust service providers, to ensure that the trust is maintained and operates as intended.

**Protection from Gold Custodian bankruptcy**

Custodians (Brink’s and Malca Amit) provide storage service for physical gold assets, with ownership belonging to the asset holder entity under Matrixdock's SPV at all times.

In the unlikely event whereby, the custodian is unable to perform its material obligations pursuant to the terms of the storage agreement, the custodian shall promptly arrange for the return and delivery of all underlying gold in accordance with Matrixdock’s instructions.

**Geographical diversification**

Matrixdock gold collaborates with multiple LBMA-accredited vault providers, such as Brink’s and Malca Amit, across different locations (Singapore and HK), mitigating exposure to any single institution.

**Temporary issuance suspension**

In the extreme circumstances where operations are halted, Matrixdock will temporarily suspend new XAUm issuance until the gold is safely transferred to a new custodian. During this period, Matrixdock commits to facilitate customer redemptions on a best effort basis.

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<summary><strong>How does XAUm handle liquidity risks in large-scale transactions?</strong></summary>

XAUm ensures seamless large scale redemptions during market volatility through robust operational practices and strategic partnerships. Matrixdock addresses liquidity risks with the following measures:

1. **LBMA-Backed Reserves:** XAUm is fully backed by LBMA-accredited gold, ensuring high liquidity and global acceptance even during market turbulence. Regular Proof of Reserves guarantees 1:1 backing, reinforcing trust and transparency.
2. **Authorized Redemption Channels:** Matrixdock partners with a diverse network of LBMA-compliant refineries and brokers to facilitate redemptions. These partnerships ensure a continuous market for XAUm, with sufficient physical gold to meet all redemption demands.
3. **Trusted Vaulting Partners:** XAUm’s reserves are stored with leading vaulting providers, equipped to handle high redemption volumes and scale operations during periods of increased demand.
4. **Clear Redemption Mechanisms:** Transparent and predefined processes, including minimum thresholds, streamline redemptions, providing investors with confidence and predictability during volatile periods.

By combining trusted infrastructure and global partnerships, Matrixdock ensures XAUm redemptions remain secure, efficient, and reliable, protecting investor interests and upholding market stability.

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