The Royal Mint Responsibly Sourced Physical Gold ETC (ticker: RMAU) has now surpassed $1 billion assets under management (AUM).

RMAU launched in 2020 in partnership with HANetf and marked the first time that an ETC had been created in partnership with a European sovereign mint. The ETC is 100% physically backed by fine gold bars and benefits from The Royal Mint’s unique custody arrangement which provides a high security, 24/7-guarded vault in Llantrisant, Wales.

This means the gold is held outside the London banking systems, providing a potentially attractive option for investors seeking real diversification in their gold custody arrangements, compared to most gold ETPs which custody at banks in or near London.

100% of the gold backing the ETC is London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) post-2019 responsibly sourced good delivery bars, with a growing number of post-2022 bars. All of the bars are independently audited twice yearly, to ensure they adhere to the highest standards of responsible sourcing.

Further to this, over half of the gold custodied is 100% recycled gold, with the aim of increasing the proportion over time.

Uniquely, RMAU offers physical redemption, whereby investments in the ETC can be redeemed for physical gold from The Royal Mint, in the form of a wide and unique range of gold bars and coins. The range of coins and bars offered is unparalleled, reflecting the broad range covered by The Royal Mint in its core business including the Sovereign and Britannia ranges.

On the 1st of January 2024, RMAU’s AUM stood at $740.77 million, and has since increased by $259.23 million to surpass the $1 billion mark. This represents a 34.99% increase year-to-date. RMAU has been one of a handful of physical gold ETCs to receive positive inflows so far this year, with a larger number recording outflows.

Andrew Dickey, Divisional Director of Precious Metals at The Royal Mint, said:

"We’re incredibly proud to announce that The Royal Mint’s Responsibly Sourced Physical Gold ETC has reached an impressive milestone of $1 billion in assets under management. This achievement speaks volumes about the growing demand for sustainable investment options and reflects the fund’s strong sustainability credentials, which have truly resonated with investors.

“The exceptional growth of this ETC also highlights The Royal Mint’s broader commitment to sustainability and our trusted, highly secure vaulting services. Additionally, it reflects the increasing attention on gold as a long-term investment, especially given its strong recent performance and enduring role as a safe haven.

“We remain dedicated to providing responsible and reliable gold investment solutions for investors, backed by our long-standing legacy in precious metals."