> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://orogold-1.gitbook.io/oro/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://orogold-1.gitbook.io/oro/9.-faqs.md).

# 9. FAQs

## Minting & Redemption

**How do I mint $GOLD?**

1. Connect or create your wallet
2. Complete KYC/KYB
3. Deposit USDC
4. Receive $GOLD at a 1:1 rate (minus fees)

**What assets can I use to mint $GOLD?**\
Currently, USDC (SPL) is supported. Additional stablecoins and card/fiat funding options are coming soon via partners like Sphere and Coinflow.

**Can I redeem $GOLD for USDC?**\
Yes. You can redeem at the live spot price. The USDC will be delivered within **T+2 business days**. A redemption fee applies.

**Can I redeem for physical gold?**\
Yes. Options include:

* Vault transfer to approved facilities
* Physical delivery (where supported)
* In-person pickup in the UAE
* Minimums, fees, and KYC apply.

## Yield & Staking

**What is staked $GOLD?**\
Staked GOLD allows you to earn gold-denominated yield by allocating your gold to institutional leasing markets — with no leverage, derivatives, or paper gold.

**How is the yield generated?**\
ORO partners with licensed gold finance providers who lease the gold to refiners, jewelers, and bullion traders. These lessees pay a fixed lease fee in gold, which is distributed to stakers.

**How are rewards paid?**\
Yield is distributed **monthly in $GOLD** and automatically deposited to your wallet.

**Is there a lockup period?**\
Yes. Staking requires a **12-month lockup**. After that, you can:

* Continue earning
* Unstake and withdraw $GOLD
* Redeem for USDC or physical gold\
  Shorter-term options are under development.

**Is there a separate staked token?**\
No. ORO currently does not issue a separate token (e.g., stGOLD). Your staked balance remains associated with your wallet. A fungible token may be launched in the future.

**Is staked gold insured?**\
Yes. The underlying gold remains fully insured and legally remains your property even while leased.

## Pricing & Oracles

**How is the price of $GOLD determined?**\
$GOLD tracks the live market price of gold using a blend of institutional-grade oracles including **Pyth** and **Switchboard**. These oracles pull prices from top global markets and ensure high-fidelity pricing for mints, redemptions, and DeFi integrations.

#### **🧾 Fees** <a href="#heading-h.8wkd06nhdf9c" id="heading-h.8wkd06nhdf9c"></a>

| **Action**                | **Fee**                                 |
| ------------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| Minting $GOLD             | 0.50% (1.00% off-hours)                 |
| Redeeming $GOLD           | 0.50% (1.00% off-hours)                 |
| USDC Redemption           | 1.5%                                    |
| Staking                   | Free                                    |
| Claiming yield            | Free                                    |
| Unstaking after 12 months | Free                                    |
| Physical delivery         | Varies (premium + shipping & insurance) |

## Security & Audits

**Are the smart contracts secure?**\
Yes. ORO smart contracts are:

* Audited by Cantina
* Built using Solana SPL standards

**Where can I verify the gold backing?**\
We publish monthly audit reports from third-party vault and assurance providers in the ORO dApp under the Transparency section.