In the vast realm of investment opportunities, where markets fluctuate and economic uncertainties loom, one timeless asset has stood the test of time: gold. For centuries, this precious metal has captivated humanity's imagination, symbolising wealth, power, and prosperity.
But beyond its allure and aesthetic appeal, gold has proven itself to be an unrivalled investment choice, offering stability, diversification, and long-term value. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the captivating world of investing in gold, exploring the factors that drive its value, and equipping you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.
Different ways of investing in gold
| S/N | Gold investment method | How does it work? | Where to purchase it? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Pure gold bars | Investing in pure gold bars involves purchasing physical gold in the form of standardised bars. These bars are typically produced by reputable refineries and come in various weights, ranging from a few grams to several kilograms. The value of these bars is directly linked to the prevailing market price of gold | Pure gold bars can be purchased from authorised bullion dealers, banks, and specialised precious metal retailers. It is crucial to ensure that the dealer is reputable and offers genuine, certified bars. |
| 2. | Pure gold coins | Investing in pure gold coins entails buying minted coins made of gold. These coins are issued by government mints and are often considered both a valuable investment and a collector's item. Gold coins usually have a fixed weight and purity, making them easily tradable. | Government mints, authorised coin dealers, and reputable online platforms are reliable sources for purchasing pure gold coins. It is advisable to research the authenticity of the seller before making a purchase. |
| 3. | Jewellery made of gold | Investing in gold jewellery involves acquiring gold items such as necklaces, bracelets, or rings. While jewellery holds sentimental and aesthetic value, its investment potential lies in the underlying gold content. The value of gold jewellery is determined by the weight and purity of the gold used in its construction. | Gold jewellery can be purchased from reputable jewellery stores, both online and offline. It is important to consider factors such as craftsmanship, design, and purity when selecting pieces for investment purposes. |
| 4. | Mutual funds and ETFs | Investing in gold through mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offers a convenient and accessible option. These investment vehicles pool money from multiple investors to invest in a portfolio of gold-related assets, including physical gold, gold mining stocks, and gold derivatives. Mutual funds are managed by professional fund managers, while ETFs trade on stock exchanges like regular shares. | Mutual funds can be purchased through brokerage firms or directly from the fund companies. ETFs can be bought and sold through stockbrokers or online trading platforms. |
| 5. | CFD (Contract for Difference) | A Contract for Difference (CFD) is a financial derivative product that allows investors to speculate on the price movements of gold without owning the underlying asset. With CFDs, investors can profit from both upward and downward price movements by taking long or short positions. CFD trading involves entering into an agreement with a broker to exchange the difference in the gold price between the opening and closing of the contract. | CFDs can be traded through online brokerage firms that offer CFD trading platforms. It is important to choose a reputable and regulated broker. |
| 6. | Mining company shares | Investing in mining company shares involves buying stocks of companies engaged in gold exploration, production, or mining operations. The value of these shares is influenced by factors such as the company's financial performance, production output, and gold prices. | Mining company shares can be purchased through brokerage firms or online trading platforms. Investors can choose from a wide range of mining companies listed on stock exchanges. |
Why invest in gold?
Buying gold is often considered a good investment option, especially during times of crisis, as its price tends to be more stable compared to other financial assets. However, it's important to note that gold is not immune to price fluctuations, and the timing of your investment plays a significant role. Over the long term, though, the value of gold has generally increased. This can be attributed, in part, to its close connection with the price of the dollar. When the dollar weakens, gold tends to rise, and vice versa. Similarly, gold also reacts to inflation typically rising within 6-9 months after an increase in the money supply.
Apart from its investment value and reputation as a safe-haven asset, gold holds significant importance in industries such as jewellery and electronics.
The constant demand for gold in these sectors contributes to its price appreciation. Since gold is a finite resource, its limited availability further contributes to its tendency to rise in value.
If you lack expertise in this area, it may be advisable to seek guidance from a financial advisor who can assist in maximising the potential of your investments. Their knowledge and experience may help you navigate the intricacies of investing in gold and make informed decisions to optimise your returns.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full liquidity: Saving in physical gold provides you with an asset that is highly liquid. This means you can easily convert your gold into cash. Gold is recognized globally as a valuable asset, and there is a well-established market for buying and selling gold, making it relatively easy to convert your gold holdings into cash. | No guaranteed returns: Gold investment does not come with guaranteed returns. While gold has historically held its value well over the long term, its price can be subject to significant fluctuations in the short term. The value of gold is influenced by various factors such as market demand, economic conditions, and investor sentiment. Therefore, there is no assurance that your investment in gold will generate a positive return. |
| Protection against political uncertainties: Gold is often considered a safe haven asset because it is not subject to political uncertainties. In times of geopolitical instability or economic turbulence, the value of currencies and other financial assets can be volatile. However, gold tends to hold its value and can act as a hedge against inflation, currency fluctuations, and political risks. | High correlation with the dollar: Since gold is globally traded in US dollars, there is a high correlation between the two. Gold prices are often influenced by the strength or weakness of the US dollar. When the value of the US dollar rises, the price of gold in dollar terms tends to fall, and vice versa. This correlation means that changes in the value of the dollar can impact the value of your gold investment. |
| Portfolio diversification: Investing in gold allows you to diversify your investment portfolio. Diversification is a strategy that involves spreading your investments across different asset classes to reduce risk. Gold has historically exhibited a low correlation with other financial assets like stocks and bonds meaning its value often moves independently of these assets. By including gold in your investment portfolio, you can potentially reduce overall portfolio risk and enhance stability. | Storage and insurance requirements: If you choose to invest in physical gold, such as bars or coins, you need to consider the costs and logistics of storing and securing your investment. Physical gold must be kept in a safe place, such as a bank's safe deposit box or a secure home safe. Additionally, there may be a need to insure your gold against theft or damage, which adds to the overall costs of ownership. |
| Value storage: Gold's high value density means that a small amount of gold can be worth a significant amount of money. This makes it relatively easy to store physical gold. Unlike other assets like real estate or large quantities of commodities, gold can be stored in a small safe deposit box or even at home without requiring much space. This convenience and portability make gold a popular choice for individuals looking to store wealth in a compact and secure form. |
When to invest in gold
Gold exhibits cyclical behaviour, performing well during periods of high inflation, a depreciating dollar, economic uncertainty, and stock market declines. Its price fluctuates throughout the year, making certain months more favourable for buying gold than others.
Typically, the beginning of the year and summer present opportunities to enter the gold market due to seasonal patterns. However, other external factors also influence the ideal timing for purchasing gold.
During times of uncertainty, the price of gold tends to be higher, while it may be lower during periods of economic strength or a strong dollar.
Did you know?
In 2020, the global recession caused by the pandemic, coupled with seasonal factors, propelled gold to reach record highs, exceeding $2,000 per ounce in August, surpassing the previous 2011 record.
Although the year 2021 was relatively underwhelming for gold, the recent Russia-Ukraine conflict reminded investors of gold's role as a safe haven, albeit not shining as brightly as during other volatile market periods. Following the conflict, gold prices surged again, reaching $2,000 per ounce in March 2022, before experiencing subsequent price declines.
FAQs
1. Why should I consider investing in gold?
Gold can serve as a hedge tool against inflation, currency fluctuations, and economic uncertainties. It offers portfolio diversification, liquidity, and a potential store of value.
2. How can I invest in gold?
There are several ways to invest in gold. You can purchase physical gold like bars or coins, invest in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), buy shares of gold mining companies, or invest in gold futures and options contracts.
3. Is investing in physical gold better than other forms of gold investment?
It depends on your preferences and circumstances. Physical gold provides tangible ownership but requires storage and security arrangements. Other forms, such as ETFs or mining stocks, offer convenience and liquidity.
4. What factors influence the price of gold?
The price of gold is influenced by various factors, including supply and demand dynamics, global economic conditions, inflation rates, currency fluctuations, central bank policies, and investor sentiment.
5. Is investing in gold risky?
Like any investment, gold carries its own risks. The price of gold can be volatile in the short term, and there is no guarantee of returns. It's important to assess your risk tolerance and diversify your investment portfolio.
6. Can I lose money investing in gold?
Yes, it is possible to experience losses when investing in gold. The value of gold can fluctuate, and if you sell during a price decline, you may incur a loss. It's important to consider your investment horizon and be prepared for potential price fluctuations.
7. How can I determine the right time to buy or sell gold?
Timing in the market(s) can be challenging. Many factors affect the price of gold. It's advisable to focus on long-term trends, diversify your investments, and consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalised guidance.
8. Are there any tax implications when investing in gold?
Tax regulations vary by country and jurisdiction. It's recommended to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor to understand the tax implications of investing in gold and make informed decisions.
9. Can I use gold as collateral for a loan?
Some financial institutions accept the actual gold as collateral for loans. However, terms and conditions may vary between financial institutions, and it's advisable to check with your bank or lending institution for specific requirements.
10. How do I ensure the authenticity of physical gold?
When buying physical gold, purchase from reputable dealers and ensure they provide proper certification or authentication. Conduct research, check for proper markings, and consider third-party verification services if necessary.
