Core Insights - Gold prices have increased approximately 25% this year, leading to heightened demand and restrictions on purchases at retailers like Costco [2] - A recent HSBC survey indicates that gold allocations among affluent investors have more than doubled from 5% to 11% [2] Group 1: Investor Behavior - High-net-worth individuals are increasingly investing in gold due to its safe-haven appeal amid trade war anxieties and geopolitical tensions [3] - Investors in Asia and the Middle East traditionally allocate 5% to 10% of their portfolios to physical gold or gold-backed investments due to currency fluctuations and high inflation [4] - There is a noticeable increase in U.S. high-net-worth clients seeking to diversify from the depreciating U.S. dollar, finding gold investments simpler to understand [5] Group 2: Investment Options - Futures are popular for short-term gold trading, while physical gold and ETFs are preferred by long-term investors [6] - J.P. Morgan recommends unallocated gold investments, which have lower fees compared to ETFs or allocated bars, allowing clients to invest in fractions starting at $250,000 [7] - Some investors prefer to hold physical gold bars despite higher fees and minimums, reflecting a cautious approach as wealth increases [8]

Core Insights - Infortar, Estonia's largest investment holding company, reported a 20% increase in turnover for Q1 2025, reaching €447 million, with total assets nearly doubling to €2.6 billion and investments tripling to €22 million [1][14][17] - The consolidation of Tallink's results into Infortar's financial statements led to a net loss of €14.6 million for Q1 2025, primarily due to Tallink's seasonal losses and an income tax expense [2][16] - The company has diversified its operations across agriculture, industry, and services, becoming a market leader in each sector [3] Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Infortar's sales revenue increased by €74.7 million compared to Q1 2024, largely due to the consolidation of Tallink Grupp [14] - The EBITDA for the maritime transport segment was negative at €-3.8 million, while the energy segment reported €31.8 million, and the real estate segment's EBITDA was €3.4 million [15] - The net profit attributable to Infortar's owners was €-4.5 million, a significant decline from a profit of €62.2 million in Q1 2024 [16] Sector Performance - The maritime transport segment faced challenges due to low consumer confidence and economic conditions in core markets, resulting in a loss of €33 million for Tallink in Q1 2025 [4][7] - The energy segment remained profitable despite a 19% decrease in natural gas consumption in the Finnish-Baltic region, attributed to an exceptionally warm winter [9][11] - The real estate segment experienced significant growth, expanding its portfolio by nearly 50% over the past year [5] Investment and Strategy - Infortar's total investments in Q1 2025 amounted to approximately €22 million, with a focus on expanding its agricultural sector presence [17] - The company maintains a strong balance sheet with free liquidity of €153 million, allowing for continued investment and adherence to its dividend policy [6][19] - Infortar operates in seven countries and has diversified its activities beyond its main sectors, including construction, agriculture, and mineral resources [24]