Investors can invest in gold through exchange-TRADED funds (ETFs), buying stock in gold miners and associated companies, and purchasing a physical product such as coins or bullion. They usually have as many reasons for investing in the precious metal as they do methods to make those investments.

In the end, economists and market professionals view gold as a portfolio diversifier and potential hedge against inflation. Gold may also be a safe-haven asset when the economy turns sour and the prices of stocks and bonds suffer. In the end, whether to invest in gold will depend on your individual circumstances and market outlook.