Where to buy gold bars without block fees in 2026: A guide to choosing the right gold institution

Buying gold bars isn’t just about going to a nearby gold shop and paying to regain ownership. You need to know where to buy gold bars to avoid unnecessary block fees and other costs that could reduce your investment returns. In 2026, there are many options offering fair-priced gold bar trading services.

How to Choose a Gold Shop: 3 Key Principles You Must Know

Before deciding to buy gold bars from any institution, the first thing to consider is the credibility of the shop. Many people worry about being scammed or buying fake gold. However, if you choose a gold institution that is a member of the Thailand Gold Traders Association and has been operating for over 20-30 years, your risk will be significantly lower.

The second is the trading method: whether you want to buy gold bars directly at a shop, online, or accumulate into a gold savings account. Each method has its pros and cons.

The third is to inquire about block fees and other costs, as some shops may have high premiums or storage fees, which can impact your investment returns.

Top 10 Gold Institutions to Invest in 2026: Genuine Leaders in Gold Bar Accumulation

1. Hua Seng Heng – A Ratchada-based Gold Institution with Over 70 Years of Experience

Hua Seng Heng is an old-established gold business tracing back to the early days. With over 70 years in the gold trade, they offer not only gold jewelry but also expanded into online trading of gold bars at 96.5% and 99.99%, referencing global market prices.

Strengths: 5 branches across Bangkok, 24/7 online services, can trade Gold Futures on TFEX. Weaknesses: Cybersecurity risks for online trading.

2. Yaowarat – The Golden Castle of Thai-Chinese Heritage

Yaowarat Gold Shops have over 50 years of operation and are now the largest gold network in Thailand with over 350 branches, trusted by many customers.

Strengths: Easy access with many branches, standard pricing according to the association. Weaknesses: Service quality may vary due to the large number of branches.

3. Aurora – Pioneer in Combining Gold and Gemstones

Aurora Gold started as a goldsmith over 40 years ago, specializing in gold jewelry, diamonds, and gold sheets. Now with over 200 branches nationwide and the Aurora Gold app for online trading.

Strengths: Offers a variety of jewelry products, online app available. Weaknesses: Prices may be higher than other shops due to focus on jewelry and gemstones.

4. Ausiris Gold – A Leader in Serious Gold Investment

Ausiris pioneered gold bar investment in Thailand nearly 20 years ago, originating from a historic shop in Phetchaburi over 100 years old. Now partnered with the Stock Exchange to offer gold ETFs and 24/7 online trading.

Strengths: Long experience in gold bar investment, 24/7 online system, gold ETFs available. Weaknesses: Market volatility risks with derivatives products.

5. MTS Gold (Mae Thong Sook) – A Complete Platform for Gold Investment

Mae Thong Sook Goldsmith, established in 1964, has been operating for over 60 years. Currently, MTS Gold offers real-time gold trading via the MTS Gold platform for short-term speculation or long-term investment.

Strengths: Wide product range (bars, jewelry, derivatives like TFEX). Weaknesses: High risk with derivatives trading, potential for significant losses.

6. TTK (Tang Toh Kang) – Thailand’s Oldest Gold Institution

TTK Gold Shop is the most historic gold institution in Thailand, operating since the reign of King Rama V, over 160 years ago. The shop features colonial architecture and has over 30 branches nationwide.

Strengths: Long-standing credibility, nationwide branches. Weaknesses: Fewer branches compared to larger shops.

7. YLG Bullion Company – Internationally Recognized Gemstone and Gold Exporter

YLG Bullion has been a renowned producer and exporter of gold jewelry and gemstones for over 20 years. It offers services via the YLG Bullion Trading platform, including gold trading, gold savings, and TFEX brokerage.

Strengths: Extensive international experience, comprehensive online services. Weaknesses: Limited physical branches; mainly online.

8. Thong Baan (Yaowarat) – Traditional Gold Dealer “Khun Sad”

Thong Baan Yaowarat is a traditional gold shop with a long history, focusing on gold jewelry and gemstone accessories. It has 5 branches in Bangkok.

Strengths: Focus on quality jewelry, official membership. Weaknesses: No gold bar investment services; only trading in Yaowarat.

9. Jin Hwa Heng – Modern Design Gold Jewelry

Jin Hwa Heng started offering gold jewelry since 1980, now featuring laser-engraved designs with modern technology and online services via an app.

Strengths: Diverse jewelry designs, standard pricing, online services. Weaknesses: Only one branch located in Yaowarat.

10. Thanakit Gold – A Gold Institution Offering Pawn and Custom Orders

Thanakit Gold evolved from a manufacturing factory to a retail shop over 40 years ago, focusing on jewelry sales, pawning, and custom-made jewelry.

Strengths: Pawn services and custom jewelry, trusted by customers. Weaknesses: No official gold bar investment services.

How to Buy Gold Bars to Maximize Investment Value

Avoid Unnecessary Block Fees

Block fees, premiums, and storage costs are key factors that eat into your returns. Before choosing where to buy, ask about these costs. Currently, some institutions offer gold bar trading without block fees or with very low fees for gold savings customers.

Investment proportions:

• Gold bars for savings: Suitable for long-term investment and inflation protection.
• Gold jewelry: Higher resale value if sold back, usable as daily accessories.
• Online gold products (Forex, ETFs, Gold Futures): Suitable for short-term speculation and traders with knowledge.

Match Your Gold Buying Method to Your Investment Goals

1. For Long-term Gold Savings

Choose a shop with low or no block fees. Large shops with many branches like Yaowarat, Ausiris Gold, or MTS Gold are suitable. Focus on buying at market prices and verify if they buy back at fair prices when you sell.

2. For Jewelry and Investment Combined

Aurora, Thanakit, or Jin Hwa Heng are ideal, as they offer beautifully designed gold jewelry that can also be worn.

3. For Short-term Gold Trading

Online trading platforms of MTS Gold, Ausiris Gold, or YLG Bullion are good options, offering 24-hour services, analytical tools, and margin trading.

Helpful Checklist: Before Buying Gold Bars

• [ ] Is the shop a member of the Thailand Gold Traders Association?
• [ ] Has it been operating for over 10 years?
• [ ] What are the block, premium, and storage fees?
• [ ] How is the buy-back process? Is the buy-back price equal to the purchase price?
• [ ] What services are available? (In-store, online, savings account)
• [ ] What is the product warranty?
• [ ] Can after-sales support be contacted?

Choosing a shop that offers no block fees depends on your investment goals and convenience. If you know exactly what you want, consider the above list of 10 institutions and use the checklist to make the most suitable decision.