Gold as an asset class

The global financial crisis has turned the spotlight on gold again. As a safe haven for investors and a store of value in the face of a potential resurgence of inflation the positive attributes of gold as an investment vehicle have reasserted themselves. Gold's appeal is firmly rooted in the diversified structure of the gold market and the fundamental dynamics of supply and demand. The study „GOLD as an Asset Class - A Guide for Investors” examines the various paths to gold investment. What sort of returns can be expected from an investment in gold? What kind of risk does this pose? How does gold improve the risk-return profile of an investment portfolio? Investors can choose from numerous gold investment vehicles like bars, coins, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), derivates and gold-mining stocks. But which of these are best suited to a specific investment goal? The study addresses these questions and more for investors and would-be investors.