Tag Archives: inflation

If you are holding U.S. dollars in a savings account, CD or money-market fund, you are slowly losing what you have saved or inherited and within a few short years you could lose the bulk of what is remaining. It is being done in such a way that most people don't notice. The hidden tax of inflation has been robbing you for quite some time and the pace and severity of this theft is increasing rapidly. If I sound alarmist, it is with intention.

The Federal Reserve's recent 50-basis point rate cut has bolstered optimism for a "soft landing," pushing the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ to new highs. While the move has alleviated uncertainty, investors remain wary of potential economic risks, including a slowing labor market and lingering inflation concerns. Despite the positive market reaction, some experts warn that market volatility could resurface if inflation picks up or the labor market weakens further. With the Fed expected to announce more rate cuts later this year, all eyes are on the November meeting for clues on future economic policy.

“Every portfolio should have a 10% core holding of gold and silver as emergency money” was the simple and timeless message in Glen O. Kirsch conveyed 33 years ago in an article entitled: “What’s in Your Core Holdings?” and such a message is even more appropriate today given the unsettling fiscal, economic and investment environment. Words: 692

The World Gold Council published its monthly Gold Market Commentary for August this week. Gold surged by 3.6% in August, reaching $2,513 per ounce, driven by a weaker U.S. dollar and lower Treasury yields. Investors are positioning for potential rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve and the uncertainties surrounding the U.S. election. Demand also saw a boost from a reduction in gold import duties in India, contributing to strong buying interest. Meanwhile, gold-backed ETFs extended their four-month inflow streak. As traders brace for a volatile second half of 2024, gold remains a key hedge against risk, with global economic uncertainties and U.S. political developments fueling the demand.

The traditional aspirations of leisurely vacations, quality education, and a secure retirement are becoming increasingly unattainable for many middle-class families. Rising costs and financial pressures have made it more difficult to save for these goals, with inflation, student debt, and inadequate retirement savings posing significant challenges. The interconnectedness of these financial struggles, compounded by political gridlock and societal behaviors, underscores the complexity of the problem. Achieving these dreams now requires both individual planning and systemic reforms to create a more sustainable economic environment for future generations.

Since the start of the year, gold prices have surged over 21%, reaching US$2,508 per ounce. Key drivers include increased central bank purchases, geopolitical tensions, expectations of U.S. interest rate cuts, and persistent inflation. These factors have created a favourable environment for gold, benefiting mining companies with substantial gold resources. This article examines the leading gold producers—Newmont, Barrick, AngloGold Ashanti, Agnico Eagle, Gold Fields, and Kinross Gold—highlighting their key assets and strategic positioning in this bullish market.

Over the past five years, gold and gold-related ETFs have experienced significant fluctuations due to economic events, changing interest rates, and shifting market sentiment. This article reviews the performance of gold, the SPDR Gold Trust (GLD), VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX), and VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF (GDXJ). Gold rose by over 60%, while GLD closely mirrored this increase. In contrast, GDX and GDXJ significantly underperformed, with GDX up only 30% and GDXJ up just 12%. This analysis highlights the varying risks and returns associated with different gold-related investments.

Inflation represents a loss of discipline that always ends up hurting a large number of people. Furthermore, the consequences of inflation can leave wreckage in which policymakers are left with no good alternative policies to follow. Words: 961

We are in the eye of the storm and when the other side of the vortex engulfs us gold and silver will increase considerably, their associated stocks will go up substantially and their warrants, where available, will escalate dramatically. With what has happened in the world of late and what will be unfolding in the next 5 years or so those few investors who fully understand the impact the current economic situation is going to have on future inflation, the USD, interest rates, the stock market, physical gold and silver and gold and silver stocks and warrants in particular are going to be in the unique position of being the benefactors of currently unimaginable returns and wealth. All they need do, as I like to say, is “Just prepare and prosper!” Words: 918

There is a difference between inflation and hyperinflation and there is no gradual path from one to the other. To wind up with true hyperinflation, some very bad things have to happen. The government has to completely lose control the populace has to completely lose faith in the system or both at the same time. Are we there yet? Let's take a look.