Why stock investors should consider gold now
Most investors, especially those that are just starting out, tend to focus on two main asset classes – stocks and bonds. While both of those form a big part of most balanced portfolios, there are many other assets to consider when putting together your investment strategy.
Gold is an investment that some people might not even think about, but it can serve a number of important purposes. There are a few reasons why right now is an especially good time for investors who may have shied away from anything other than stocks and bonds to consider gold.
If you might want to jump into the world of gold investing, start by getting a free information kit to learn more.
Why stock investors should consider gold now
Here are a few of the reasons stock investors might want to look to the gold market right now:
Gold hedges against inflation
Though inflation was steady in September 2023, it is still at 3.7%, which is higher than the 2% the Federal Reserve has been targeting. This means that if you're investments aren't earning at least 3.7%, you're actually losing purchasing power.
Gold, on the other hand, is generally thought to retain its value. This means that if some of your investments don't beat inflation, you're protected by your gold investments. Learn more about how gold can help you fight inflation here now.
Gold diversifies your portfolio
One of the most basic rules of investing is to have a diverse portfolio. Within the world of stock investing, this means not putting all of your investments into one company, industry or sector.
Diversification also means having investments in different asset classes, though. If stocks make up your entire portfolio, you could be in for a world of hurt if the entire market takes a bad dip. Investing in gold gives you a cushion and protects at least some of your assets from any world-shaking events on Wall Street
Gold protects from external factors
It's no secret that there is a lot going on right now. Major wars are being fought in Europe and in the Middle East, the COVID-19 pandemic is still impacting some industries and there is a contentious U.S. presidential election that is just getting started.
All of these could lead to instability in the markets, which can lead to stock investors losing money. If some of your money is in gold, it will protect you against the chaos that could be caused by geopolitical events far outside of your control.
How to invest in gold
There are a few basic ways you can invest in gold.
Buying gold bars and coins
The most basic way to invest in gold is to buy gold bars and coins. You can do this online, through a reputable precious metals dealer, or even at Costco. If you do go this route, make sure you've thought of a secure place to secure your gold.
Gold ETFs
An exchange-traded fund is a mutual fund that trades on the market. The money put into the fund is invested and returns are split based on how many shares you own. There are specialized gold ETFs that only invest in gold, allowing you to get into the gold market without having to physically own any metal.
Gold IRA
An individualized retirement account is a tax-advantaged way to save money for retirement. Gold IRAs are specialized accounts that let the saver hold gold and other precious metals as part of their retirement savings. Some rules for contributions do apply, so make sure you read up before open the account.
Get started on your gold investment journey online now.
The bottom line
Gold is perhaps the oldest investment product there is, but many investors don't think of it when building their portfolios. Right now is a good time for stock investors to consider looking to gold as a way to protect their money and diversify their portfolio and they can do so in multiple ways - from gold bars and coins to gold ETFs and gold IRAs with those with an eye toward retirement.
