By Tim Schmidt - UPDATED: December 1, 2024
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As someone who’s been navigating the world of finance for years, I’ve come across a myriad of platforms promising to revolutionize our approach to investments. One such platform that’s been making waves recently is iTrust Capital. It’s touted as an innovative solution for investing in digital assets and precious metals through your retirement account, similar to a bitcoin ira. But how well does it live up to the hype?
In this article, I’ll delve into a comprehensive review of iTrust Capital, examining its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, it’s crucial to understand the platform you’re entrusting with your hard-earned money. So, let’s cut through the noise and find out if iTrust Capital is the right choice for your investment needs.
Overview of iTrustCapital
Following my previous discussion regarding iTrustCapital being a potential gamechanger in digital assets, crypto assets, and precious metals investing under retirement accounts, I’m taking it further with this comprehensive review. Let’s delve into this platform’s company profile, history, and its overall performance through customer ratings and experiences.
iTrustCapital: Company Profile, History, and Retirement Accounts
Established by finance experts Todd Southwick and Blake Skadron, iTrustCapital made an entry into the financial services industry in 2019. Its corporate hubs are located in Irvine, California, as well as in close-by Calabasas. The platform aims to democratize crypto investing, significantly lowering the potential barriers for investors. The company recorded a substantial increase in transaction volume, from $2 billion in July 2021 to $6 billion by August 2022, marking a huge 200% growth in just over a year.
iTrustCapital expanded its services during 2022 by collaborating with USC Trojans and in early 2023 with Fortress Trust, situated in Summerlin, Nevada. The latter partnership simplified aspects such as account setup, onboarding, and provided custodianship services for investors venturing into precious metals through iTrustCapital. Additionally, crypto liquidity services were introduced with this association. With these advancements, the company aims to scale up and serve 10 million investors across the world.
Evaluating iTrustCapital: Ratings, Complaints, and Exceptional Customer Service
iTrustCapital doesn’t hold an accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), garnering an F rating and an average customer rating of 2 out of 5 stars due to complaints about slow distributions and communication issues.
Seven complaints have been logged concerning iTrustCapital over the past year on the BBB platform, addressing issues around account setup, difficulty reaching representatives, and frustration over disappearing funds after money transfers. BBB reported all these complaints as closed.
On the other hand, Business Consumer Alliance acknowledged the platform with its highest AAA rating. However, the average customer rating here is also low, at 2 out of 5 stars, primarily due to complaints about poor communication, delayed distribution of funds, and additional charges on account closure.
Delivering a differing opinion, TrustPilot rates iTrustCapital as Excellent with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 2,600 reviewers. Additionally, Google profiles reveal a fair rating of 4.6 from 458 reviewers with praises for prompt customer service and hassle-free account transfers. Positive feedback often highlights customer service rep Ashley for her knowledgeable and patient assistance in navigating the platform.
Leadership at iTrustCapital
At the helm of iTrustCapital is CEO Kevin Maloney, a seasoned professional with a track record spanning a quarter-century. Maloney oversees the strategic direction of iTrustCapital's software platform nurturing its vision and culture. He previously held executive roles in PIMCO and First American Trust, often involved in investor presentations and fundraising, successfully amassing almost $250 million for multiple startups.
Joining him is co-founder Blake Skadron, who as the Chief Visionary Officer, drives iTrustCapital's brand efforts, marketing strategies, and client experience. Other notable members in the leadership team include COO Trevor Gregory and CFO Chris Franks, both of whom bring extensive experience in operations and finance respectively.
Secure Custody and Storage Solutions at iTrustCapital
iTrustCapital offers safety measures for clients' investments through its agreement with Fortress Trust for custodian services. Fortress Trust introduces advanced, supportive financial services for alternative investments, such as cryptocurrency and physical precious metals. These include custodian services for retirement accounts, trustee services, credit and crypto payment processing, and tools protective against fraud.
Further ensuring security and transparency, iTrustCapital utilizes the Tradewinds Vaultchain platform that aids tracking and trading while storing physical gold and silver at the world-renowned Royal Canadian Mint.
Target Audience for iTrustCapital
iTrustCapital is a digital asset IRA platform that caters to a diverse range of investors. Whether you’re an individual looking to diversify your retirement portfolio with cryptocurrencies and precious metals or an investor seeking a tax-advantaged way to invest in digital assets, iTrustCapital has something to offer. The platform is particularly appealing to those interested in exploring alternative investment options for their retirement accounts.
Self-directed IRA investors who want to take control of their investment decisions will find iTrustCapital’s offerings especially beneficial. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible to both novice and experienced investors. If you have a high-risk tolerance and a long-term investment horizon, iTrustCapital provides the tools and resources to help you achieve your financial goals.
How to Reach iTrustCapital
As a potential investor, understanding how to communicate with and access the services provided by iTrustCapital is crucial. This section explores various aspects of engaging with iTrustCapital, ranging from setting up consultations to funding your account.
How to Schedule a Consultation with iTrustCapital
Engaging with iTrustCapital for a consultation is a straightforward process. You merely need to navigate to their website and find the 'Contact Us' tab. From there, you can place a call or fill out a simple online form directing your query. Ensure you select the 'General Request/New Client Onboarding' option and an iTrustCapital representative will revert and help you set up an appointment.
Setting Up an Account with iTrustCapital
Want to start trading with iTrustCapital? You will first need to set up an account. When you visit the iTrustCapital homepage, spot the ‘Open Account’ button and click it. Then, click ‘Create Account’ and provide the necessary information as requested. Upon completion, you’ll receive a verification email from iTrustCapital. Verify your email, log in to your newly created account, and proceed to fill out the ‘Account Application.’
The application will ask for essential personal data like your name, address, and social security number. Also, you’ll need to select the type of IRA you’re interested in opening, such as a Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or SEP IRA. iTrustCapital allows you to fund your account using your current retirement account be it a 401(k), TSP, 403(b), or 457. Be sure to review and agree to the IRA adoption agreement before proceeding. To top up your account in the future, you can easily click ‘Add Funds’ on the Dashboard.
How to Fund Your iTrustCapital Account
Ready to start utilizing your iTrustCapital account? Begin by funding your account. You can accomplish this through various means such as cash contributions, conversions, transfers, and rollovers. iTrustCapital makes it possible for customers to link several bank accounts and use ACH transfers to fund their accounts. By using tax efficient retirement accounts, you can invest in cryptocurrencies and precious metals while benefiting from tax savings, protecting yourself from capital gains taxes.
If you already have an IRA account, you can transfer it to your iTrustCapital crypto IRA. Even if it’s a crypto IRA, you can execute an in-kind transfer. In non-tech jargon, this means you won’t have to liquidate your assets. Typically, such transfers take between one to two weeks.
You might also consider rolling over an employer’s retirement plan into an iTrustCapital IRA. To do this, select ‘Employer Plan Rollover’ from the funding type menu and fill out the provided form. Always remember to attach a recent statement from the funding account for verification. Note that these rollovers usually take between three to four weeks to execute fully.
Understanding Delivery and Storage for iTrustCapital Purchases
Remember, when you invest in iTrustCapital, you're dealing with digital assets. It's important to keep in mind that you won't ever take physical possession of these assets. If you purchase cryptocurrency via iTrustCapital, your digital wealth will be anchored safely at Coinbase Custody and Fireblocks.
The case is similar for physical gold or silver purchases, which also require a custodian and a storage facility for compliance with IRS regulations. For these items, iTrustCapital engages with the Royal Canadian Mint to assure safe storage. Additionally, Fortress Trust provides custodianship services for iTrustCapital precious metals IRA accounts.
Products Offered by iTrustCapital
My exploration of iTrustCapital has revealed a game-changer in the investment landscape. With its innovative take on digital assets and precious metals investment through retirement accounts, it’s clear this platform is a standout. Its partnerships, particularly with USC Trojans and Fortress Trust, further prove its credibility. The leadership team, with Kevin Maloney at the helm, has shown commitment and expertise in their field. Their secure custody solutions and user-friendly processes make investing straightforward and safe. The ease of setting up and funding accounts, coupled with clear communication channels, makes iTrustCapital a wise choice for investors.
The user interface of iTrustCapital significantly enhances customer experiences and satisfaction by making the platform easy to navigate, which is crucial for facilitating investment processes such as buying and selling cryptocurrencies and precious metals.
So, whether you’re new to the investment game or a seasoned player, iTrustCapital is worth considering for your retirement investment needs.
What is iTrust Capital?
iTrust Capital is an innovative investment platform that allows people to invest in digital assets and precious metals through their retirement accounts.
Who are the leaders of iTrust Capital?
The company is led by CEO Kevin Maloney and co-founder Blake Skadron.
What secure custody solutions does iTrust Capital offer?
iTrust Capital offers secure custody solutions through partnering with Fortress Trust and the Tradewinds Vaultchain platform.
How can I set up an account with iTrust Capital?
Setting up an account with iTrust Capital is simple. Visit their website, follow the prompts to initiate the process, or schedule a consultation for guidance.
What funding options does iTrust Capital offer?
iTrust Capital provides various funding options, including transfers from existing retirement accounts.
How are digital assets and precious metals stored with iTrustCapital?
All digital assets and precious metals are securely stored through Fortress Trust and the Tradewinds Vaultchain platform.
Available Cryptocurrencies at iTrustCapital
iTrustCapital offers a robust selection of over 30 cryptocurrencies for investment, ensuring that investors have a wide array of options to choose from. Some of the prominent cryptocurrencies available include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Cardano (ADA), Stellar (XLM), EOS, Dogecoin (DOGE), Polkadot (DOT), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), and Compound (COMP).
In addition to these digital assets, iTrustCapital also provides the opportunity to invest in physical gold and silver. This combination of cryptocurrencies and precious metals allows investors to create a diversified and balanced portfolio, catering to various investment strategies and risk appetites.
Overview of iTrustCapital IRA Account
iTrustCapital’s IRA account is a self-directed IRA that empowers investors to include cryptocurrencies and precious metals in their retirement portfolios. One of the standout features of this account is its tax-advantaged nature. Contributions to the account may be tax-deductible, and earnings grow tax-deferred, providing significant tax benefits over time.
The account offers remarkable flexibility, allowing investors to choose from a wide range of cryptocurrencies and precious metals. This flexibility ensures that investors can tailor their portfolios to meet their specific financial goals and risk tolerance. Additionally, investors have full control over their investment decisions, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a hands-on approach to managing their retirement funds.
Security is a top priority for iTrustCapital. Assets are stored in secure, offline storage with Coinbase Custody and Fireblocks, ensuring that your investments are protected against potential threats.
How can I communicate with iTrust Capital?
Investors can easily communicate with iTrust Capital through their website or by scheduling a consultation.