Personal Finance Apr 16, 2024 05:42 AM EDT

Inflation Hedge or Hype? Weighing the Pros and Cons of Owning Gold

By April Fowell

Many were dismayed by a study released last week that showed inflation was increasing month over month, but it also highlighted how important it is to have a diverse portfolio. With one, investors can more effectively counteract the negative effects of rising interest rates intended to control inflation. Using gold and silver to diversify is also a good strategy.

Inflation Hedge or Hype? Weighing the Pros and Cons of Owning Gold

Many were dismayed by a study released last week that showed inflation was increasing month over month, but it also highlighted how important it is to have a diverse portfolio. With one, investors can more effectively counteract the negative effects of rising interest rates intended to control inflation. Using gold and silver to diversify is also a good strategy.
(Photo : by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Precious metals have special advantages that aren't seen in other asset types. However, these benefits might vary depending on the sort of gold invested, which makes some question if gold bars and coins are still worthwhile given the rising inflation rate. Below, we'll go over three strong arguments for why it would be worthwhile to invest in them.

With Inflation Increasing, are Gold Coins and Bars Still Worthwhile?

In any economic environment, but particularly in the current one experiencing inflation, gold bars and coins can be valued. The following three factors may persuade you to invest now:

They May Serve as an Inflation Hedge

Gold's protection may be advantageous to many investors in the current inflationary environment. Recent record gold prices show that gold frequently retains or even rises in value during inflationary times. For investors who may otherwise see erratic returns from stocks, bonds, and other assets while this inflation cycle plays out, this is a significant benefit.

Then, if the price of gold keeps rising, you might be able to stop those losses and perhaps make a rapid profit by purchasing gold bars and coins today.

Read Also: Should You Buy Gold at Record Highs?

They Might Provide Variety To Your Portfolio

Coins and bars made of gold are also useful for diversifying a portfolio. Given the metal's consistent performance mentioned above, it would be wise to invest in gold right away to reduce the likelihood of portfolio hardship. While it may not be an ideal solution, it is worthwhile to explore all available options to diversify your portfolio and improve its overall soundness.

Make sure you invest the appropriate amount, though. Even while alternative assets like gold bars and coins might be especially alluring right now due to growing inflation, most consultants still advise keeping the amount of gold in your portfolio to 10% or less.

It Is Simple to Buy and Sell Them

These days, gold can be found everywhere. It can be purchased online through reputable gold firms and stores like Costco and Walmart. After refilling last autumn, Costco found that their gold bar inventory quickly sold out and that the asset swiftly increased in value to hundreds of millions of dollars every month.

Investors benefit from this as they can easily obtain precious metal and sell it to others at the ideal moment in the market. Furthermore, compared to other gold investments and gold IRAs, gold bars and coins have the advantage of being tactile, which sets them apart from the competition.

Given that inflation is likely to persist for some time, it may be beneficial to consider all of your investment alternatives, even unconventional ones like gold bars and coins. Like other gold varieties, this special kind of investment can diversify your portfolio and provide a sufficient buffer against inflation.

Additionally, it's quite simple to purchase, sell, and acquire more in April 2024. Because of these factors, gold coins and bars can be worthwhile investments for you at this time of rising inflation. As with any investment kinds, though, to really reap the rewards of this asset, make sure you complete your homework and keep your investment amounts to a minimum.

Related Article: Hassle-Free Ways to Invest in Gold and Silver This Spring


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