I don't think it is so simple. There is already a EUR 10k limit on the amount of cash that you can carry across EU border without declaring it. In case of violations the money may be confiscated. I would assume that the same would apply for gold above some reasonable value (e.g. a really big gold necklace :) ).

So the use case is evading tax, money laundering etc.

Glad we got to the point eventually.

Yes, absolutely. Also evading sanctions, buying prohibited goods etc.

To remind, most people in the world live in countries with oppressive governments.

> evading tax, money laundering etc.

And evading oppressive governments. Disobeying the law is not always a "bad" thing.

That is exactly the practical case for BTC, yes. But note that this is about moving money from point A to point B, not storing it.

> * I would assume that the same would apply for gold above some reasonable value (e.g. a really big gold necklace :) ).*

Whereas with Bitcoin, it is much more difficult to confiscate it because it's purely information. You might be trusting the manufacturer of a hard wallet to protect the privacy of your seed phrase, but once you memorize it no one can forcibly take it from you.

OK and why would you choose not to declare it?

I think you meant external borders, because there are no border checks between Schengen area countries.