SHARPS PIXLEY Company

Sharps Pixley Company: A Comprehensive Overview

1. Company Overview

Founding Date and Background

Sharps Pixley, originally founded as William Sharp in 1778, has evolved into a leading independent full-service precious metal brokerage. The company has a rich heritage rooted in British tradition, emphasizing service, discretion, integrity, and respect.

Parent Company/Owership Structure

Sharps Pixley is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Degussa, a prominent player in the European precious metals market. This affiliation allows Sharps Pixley to leverage institutional scale and expertise while maintaining a personalized service approach.

Headquarters Location

The company is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, with its flagship showroom located at 54 St. James's Street. This prime location in London's West End caters to a diverse clientele, including private investors and institutional clients.

Global Business Scope

Sharps Pixley operates internationally, serving a global client base that includes private clients, family offices, institutional investors, trusts, and pension schemes (SIPPs and SSAS). The firm is committed to making precious metals accessible to a wide audience while promoting transparency within the market.

Main Regulatory Bodies

As a member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), Sharps Pixley adheres to the highest industry standards. It is also subject to regulations from various financial authorities in the jurisdictions it operates.

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2. Company History and Development

Key Milestones

• 1778: Founding of William Sharp, the precursor to Sharps Pixley.
• 2017: Became one of the first precious metal dealers to accept Bitcoin as a payment method, marking its entry into the cryptocurrency space.
• 2019: Refreshed brand identity to emphasize its British heritage and commitment to traditional values.
• 2020: Launched a new website to enhance digital capabilities and client engagement.

Business Expansion Journey

Sharps Pixley has experienced significant growth, particularly in response to increased international demand for precious metals. The firm reported a 75% increase in trading revenue in 2018 and projected a further 40% rise in 2019, reflecting its successful expansion efforts.

Customer Base Growth

The company's client base has diversified over the years, attracting a mix of private clients, family offices, and institutional investors. Its open-door policy and commitment to client education have fostered long-term relationships, with some families maintaining accounts for generations.

Platform Development History

The introduction of a new digital platform in 2020 revolutionized how clients manage their investments. This platform allows for 24-hour access to relationship managers and facilitates transactions in multiple currencies, aligning with clients growing expectations for agility and transparency.

Important Awards or Recognitions Received

Sharps Pixley has been recognized for its exceptional service and commitment to client satisfaction, although specific awards are not detailed in the available information.

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3. Trading Services Offered

Forex Trading Options

While Sharps Pixley primarily focuses on precious metals, it does not provide traditional forex trading services. However, clients can transact in various currencies when purchasing metals.

Stock Trading Options

The company does not engage in stock trading. Its services are centered around the buying and selling of precious metals, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

CFD Trading Products

Sharps Pixley does not offer Contracts for Difference (CFDs) as part of its trading services. Its core business remains the brokerage of precious metals.

Other Financial Instruments

Sharps Pixley has embraced modern payment methods by accepting cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple through BitPay. This innovative approach allows clients to buy precious metals using digital currencies, enhancing flexibility and choice.

Special Services or Unique Advantages

• Voice Brokerage: Clients benefit from direct communication with dedicated account managers for personalized service.
• Vaulting Services: The company offers secure vaulting options for precious metals, ensuring that clients can store their assets safely.
• Safe Deposit Boxes: Clients can also utilize safe deposit boxes for storing valuable items securely.

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4. Regulatory and Legal Background

Detailed Regulatory Information

Sharps Pixley is regulated by several bodies, including:

• London Bullion Market Association (LBMA): Ensures adherence to industry standards.
• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Regulates financial services firms in the UK.

Legal Entity Structure by Region

The company operates primarily as a private limited company under UK law, adhering to all relevant regulations in the jurisdictions where it conducts business.

Client Fund Protection Measures

Sharps Pixley employs robust measures to protect client funds, including secure vaulting services fully insured through Marsh JLT Specialty Ltd, underwritten by Lloyds of London.

Countries/Regions Served

The firm serves clients primarily in the United Kingdom, but its services are available to international clients, particularly in Europe and North America.

Compliance History

Sharps Pixley maintains a strong compliance record, adhering to the regulatory requirements set forth by governing bodies. The company is committed to transparency and integrity in all its operations.

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5. Competitive Landscape

3-5 Main Competitors

• Kitco: A well-known name in the precious metals market, offering a range of services similar to Sharps Pixley.
• GoldCore: A competitor specializing in gold investments and storage solutions.
• BullionVault: An online platform that allows clients to buy, sell, and store gold and silver bullion.

Positioning in the Industry

Sharps Pixley positions itself as a boutique precious metal brokerage with a focus on personalized service and discretion. Its long-standing history and commitment to traditional values set it apart from larger, more impersonal competitors.

Market Differentiation Factors

• Heritage and Tradition: With roots dating back to 1778, Sharps Pixley emphasizes its British heritage and commitment to quality service.
• Personalized Service: The firms focus on building long-term relationships with clients through dedicated account management is a significant differentiator.
• Innovative Payment Options: By accepting cryptocurrencies, Sharps Pixley appeals to a modern clientele seeking flexibility in payment methods.

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In summary, Sharps Pixley is a distinguished name in the precious metals brokerage industry, combining a rich heritage with modern innovations to meet the needs of its diverse clientele. With a commitment to integrity, transparency, and exceptional service, the company is well-positioned to continue its legacy for generations to come.

For more detailed information about Sharps Pixley, please visit their official website.