Asset-Based Loans: Unlocking Capital Through Gold, Silver and Jewellery

Gold bullion, silver bullion, Krugerrands, and fine jewellery are physical assets with measurable value — and at Knox, they can now be used strategically. Knox Safe Custody now enables clients to unlock the financial potential of these items through confidential, secured, asset-based loans.

This service allows you to borrow against physical assets without selling them. It’s a streamlined way to access funds without undoing your long-term strategy. Whether you hold investment bullion or inherited jewellery, Knox’s lending option provides flexibility and discretion backed by industry expertise.

What Is an Asset-Based Loan?

An asset-based loan is a type of secured financing that uses high-value tangible assets as collateral. Instead of applying through a bank, clients can receive capital based on the measurable, real-time value of items such as:

• Gold bullion bars and coins
• Silver bullion
• Krugerrands
• Precious metal jewellery (gold, silver, platinum)
  
  

These items are independently evaluated, priced based on live pricing, and held in insured, on-site vaults during the loan period. Once the loan is repaid, the item is returned to the client in full.

📍 Explore Knox’s secure storage options
🔗 View our bullion buy and sell services

Why Use Physical Assets as Security?

Using tangible assets such as bullion and jewellery offers several strategic advantages:

• You maintain ownership while unlocking capital
• Valuation is immediate and based on globally recognised pricing
• There’s no need to sell in unfavourable market conditions
• It allows clients to tap into the value of assets they already hold, without drawing down savings or liquid investments
  
  

Precious metals like gold are seen as resilient, non-correlated assets — especially in uncertain financial markets. According to the London Bullion Market Association, gold continues to serve as a reliable hedge against inflation and currency volatility.

Each item is evaluated based on:

• Metal purity and weight
• Current international spot price
• Condition and overall market relevance
  
  

Knox does not currently accept loose diamonds or uncertified stones unless they are part of a qualifying piece of jewellery.

📊 Live Krugerrand pricing is available here.

How the Lending Process Works

1. Book a private appointment at our secure facility – the former U.S Consulate Building in Houghton, Johannesburg.
2. An experienced team member will evaluate your asset using non-invasive, state-of-the-art technology that preserves the integrity of your item.
3. Based on the asset’s quality and the current live price, a loan value is proposed.
4. If accepted, your item is securely stored in Knox’s insured vault, and the loan is issued immediately.
5. Once the loan is repaid, the item is returned to you. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can choose to sell the item to Knox or store it long-term in a safe deposit box.
   
   

The process is clear, efficient and discreet.

Key Terms at a Glance

• Loan Type: Secured against physical assets (bullion and/or jewellery)
• Valuation: Same-day, using advanced non-destructive testing
• Repayment: Flexible periods agreed upon in advance
• Security: Your item is stored securely in its own labelled, insured space within our vault
• Transparency: All fees, interest and terms are disclosed upfront
• Client support: Dedicated, professional handling throughout the process
  
  

Every agreement is documented and barcoded.

Regulatory and Compliance Standards

Knox operates in line with best practices under South African financial and lending frameworks. While we don’t extend traditional credit, we adhere to rigorous KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, formal documentation standards, and secure storage protocols.

Our service offering is all in line with the National Credit Regulator broader regulatory context on secured lending in South Africa.

These structures protect both the lender and the client — and ensure transparency, compliance and confidence throughout the transaction.

Why Clients Choose Knox

Clients trust Knox because we are already an established leader in:

• Physical bullion sales and storage
• Jewellery evaluation and buy-back
• Secure vaulting and private custody
  
  

Adding asset-based lending to our offering is a natural extension of our infrastructure and client-first philosophy. Every evaluation is private, every agreement is personalised, and every item is treated with respect.

You’re not sending your assets to a third party or mailing them off-site. Everything happens under one roof, with confidentiality and insurance guaranteed.

The Case for Lending Against Bullion in 2025

With gold trading at near-record highs, and demand for physical metal increasing across global markets, it’s no surprise that many individuals prefer to retain their bullion holdings rather than sell them outright.

Asset-based loans allow clients to:

• Access working capital while retaining asset ownership
• Avoid rushed liquidation during market volatility
• Use inherited or dormant assets productively
  
  

As highlighted by the World Gold Council, physical gold continues to outperform during inflationary periods and market stress. In South Africa, the Krugerrand remains a cornerstone of private wealth — and a smart asset to leverage when funding needs arise.

In case you are still unsure of which items can be used for an Asset-Based Loan?

Knox accepts a focused list of high-value items, including:

• Gold bullion (bars or coins, in all denominations)
• Silver bullion, provided it meets investment-grade standards
• Krugerrands, including 1 oz, ½ oz, ¼ oz and 1/10 oz
• Fine jewellery containing gold, silver or platinum — with or without gemstones
  
  

Secure Your Valuation

Knox offers a discreet, experienced, and fully insured way to access capital through your bullion or jewellery — without forfeiting ownership or control.

Whether you’re an investor, a collector, or someone managing generational wealth, our lending service allows you to make strategic use of the value you already hold.

📍 Visit us in Houghton
📅 Book your consultation today during our operating hours
📩 Enquire today about an asset-based loan or professional evaluation

Knox Safe Custody: Where assets work harder — and remain entirely yours.