Are you thinking about investing in gold this May? Doing so could be a wise choice. After all, gold has a long history as an inflation hedge, currency alternative and portfolio diversifier. However, no investment decision should be made on a whim.
Instead, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of any investment decision before you make it. And, while there are plenty of reasons to consider investing in gold this May, there are also a few reasons you may be apprehensive about doing so. That noted, it’s important to know the pros and cons of investing in gold this May.
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3 pros and cons of investing in gold this May
This May could be a compelling time to add gold to your investment portfolio. But before you do, consider the following pros and cons.
Pro: Inflation continues
Gold has a storied history as a hedge against inflation. This historical trend makes investing in gold a desirable option, especially with recent inflation rates surpassing expectations. If inflation persists, gold prices may continue to rise, enhancing the value of your investment.
Protecting your investment portfolio from inflation should be a top priority, making gold a lucrative choice.
Con: Gold’s price
Gold is currently trading at $2,300.56 per ounce, which might seem expensive for some investors. Maintaining a balanced portfolio suggests limiting gold investments to 10% of total assets. However, fractional gold investments are an option to stay within this threshold, allowing investors with smaller portfolios to participate.
Pro: Gold’s price growth
While gold is not typically known for rapid price growth, recent trends have shown otherwise. The record-breaking performance of gold prices indicates a potential opportunity for investors. Despite recent cooling in prices, this downturn could be a strategic entry point for investors looking to capitalize on future price hikes.
Con: You’ll need to store your gold
Investing in gold requires secure storage, unlike traditional assets such as stocks and bonds. Whether using a safety deposit box or a gold depository, storage costs may impact your returns. It’s essential to consider these additional expenses before investing in physical gold.
Pro: Gold is highly accessible
Gold is more accessible now than ever before, with various avenues for purchase. From specialized precious metals dealers to mainstream retailers like Walmart and Costco, acquiring gold has never been easier. This accessibility allows investors of all levels to enter the gold market effortlessly.
Con: Gold won’t produce income as rapidly as other assets
Unlike stocks and bonds that generate income through dividends and interest, gold’s value appreciation is the main income source for investors. Economic improvements could slow this growth, affecting the income potential of gold investments.
The bottom line
Considering an investment in gold this May could yield significant benefits, given its historical value as a safe haven asset. Evaluating the pros and cons outlined above is crucial to make an informed decision. In a potentially inflationary environment, capitalizing on gold’s price growth and accessibility could be advantageous. However, storage costs and income generation limitations should be factored in when contemplating a gold investment.
Comparing various dealers’ offerings can help you find the best option for your investment needs in the gold market.