Core Viewpoint - A gold investment company in Hangzhou has faced a payment crisis since May 20, leading to significant financial losses for numerous investors, including high-education families [1][2][8]. Group 1: Company Background - The company had previously promised a fourfold return on investments in 2021, which attracted many investors [4][8]. - It claimed to have a "state-owned background" and "bank custody" as credit endorsements, which contributed to its credibility among investors [8]. Group 2: Investment Products and Services - The company offered a "guaranteed redemption" service, where investors would incur a fee of 2 yuan per gram if gold prices increased, while facing no losses if prices fell [5][8]. - Many investors, including retirees, invested their pensions into this company, drawn by the attractive promises of high returns [7][8]. Group 3: Current Crisis - The company's e-commerce platform has experienced widespread payment issues, with initial estimates indicating unpaid amounts reaching several hundred million yuan [8]. - Reports suggest that the company's executives have gone missing, and the financial officer has fled to Yunnan, exacerbating the crisis [8]. - Local law enforcement has initiated an investigation into the company's operations due to the financial irregularities [10]. Group 4: Industry Context - The gold investment sector has seen similar crises, with other companies like Fujian Keguan Jewelry also facing payment issues, indicating a broader trend of instability in the industry [10]. - The rise in gold prices has created significant risks for gold investment companies, as they struggle to meet their promised returns amidst increasing costs [13].