Bangkok--22 Jan--ออสสิริส Leading Thailand gold investment institute Ausiris is recommending gold as a sound mid to long term investment — but is advising investors against short term speculative purchases. Mr. Boonlert Siripatvanich, President and CEO of Ausiris Co., Ltd., says that investors must take account of all factors that could influence the price of gold — and not look for short-term gains. Mr. Boonlert, who now has some 15 years of knowledge and experience in the gold business, highlights the consistent rise in the value of gold over the past seven years. “Since 2000 the value of gold has risen each year by an average of 10-15 per-cent, based on an average of international market prices. Last year we witnessed a 35 per-cent rise and this month we have seen gold reach an all-time high of US$ 914 per ounce (THB 14,200). “This has given gold investors an attractive return in comparison to the stock market, which has shown considerable volatility, and the modest 3-5 per-cent returns offered by government bonds,” he says. Mr. Boonlert is predicting a consistent demand for gold as investors seek refuge from the effects of global economic contraction, fuelled in part by the US sub-prime lending crisis, and a general slowdown in world economic growth. “We’re expecting demand to remain as we approach the Chinese New Year. The continuing political uncertainties in Thailand remain a leading factor when investors consider gold in preference to stocks, currencies and other commodities”, he adds. The value of gold will not decline in absolute terms. Gold has a long history of waxing and waning in allure. Gold was once valued at just 400 baht per ounce, compared to today’s price of over 14,000 baht. There’s no doubt that it a particular, and almost romantic attraction, given the constant concerns about inflation, risks in the financial markets and the unstable political situation. “People can hold it in their hands and may not understand its volatility. That’s why we’re recommending gold as a good longer term investment, says Mr. Boonlert. The advice from Ausiris is to accumulate slowly and steadily, rather than make a one-time bulk purchase. The US sub-prime crisis drove many investors to gold but the possibility remains that gold prices might ease as the major banking institutions continue to recover and an element of stability returns to international stock markets. Ausiris provides detailed information and advisory services to gold investors based upon its many years of experience. Ausiris customers may be assured of sound advice from our team of experts. These services include providing basic information for the first-time investor and detailed analysis about the gold markets. Investors can now visit Ausiris at the company’s new branch at Central World 25th floor. Or visit the website www.ausiris.co.th or Yaowarad office telephone number 0-2225-9904-7. For more information, please contact Panarasee Thaiwatcharamas PR & Associates Ltd. Tel: 0-2651-8989 ext. 222 Email: [email protected]