## Is Gold a Safe Investment in 2019?
Gold has been a popular investment for centuries, and for good reason. It is a tangible asset that has historically held its value during periods of economic uncertainty. In recent years, gold has been seen as a safe haven asset, and its price has risen accordingly. However, there are some factors to consider before investing in gold, and it is important to do your research before making a decision.
### Factors to Consider
* **The price of gold.** The price of gold is constantly fluctuating, so it is important to keep an eye on the market before investing. Gold prices can be affected by a number of factors, including economic conditions, political events, and supply and demand.
* **The economic outlook.** Gold is often seen as a safe haven asset during periods of economic uncertainty. When the economy is doing well, investors may be more likely to invest in stocks and other riskier assets. However, when the economy is struggling, investors may flock to gold as a safe place to store their money.
* **Interest rates.** Interest rates can also affect the price of gold. When interest rates are low, gold may be more attractive to investors because it offers a higher return than traditional savings accounts. However, when interest rates rise, investors may be more likely to put their money in bonds or other fixed-income investments that offer a higher yield.
* **Inflation.** Inflation can also erode the value of gold over time. When inflation is high, the price of goods and services rises, which means that gold’s purchasing power decreases.
### Pros and Cons of Investing in Gold
**Pros**
* **Gold is a tangible asset.** Unlike stocks or bonds, which are simply pieces of paper, gold is a physical asset that you can hold in your hand. This makes it a more secure investment than paper assets, which can be lost or stolen.
* **Gold has a long history of holding its value.** Gold has been used as a currency for centuries, and it has consistently held its value during periods of economic uncertainty. This makes it a good investment for those who are looking for a safe haven asset.
* **Gold is a global currency.** Gold is traded all over the world, which means that it is easy to buy and sell. This makes it a more liquid investment than some other assets, such as real estate or private equity.
**Cons**
* **Gold is not a high-yield investment.** Gold does not pay dividends or interest, so it is not a good investment for those who are looking for high returns.
* **Gold can be volatile.** The price of gold can fluctuate dramatically, so it is important to be aware of the risks before investing.
* **Gold can be subject to theft.** Gold is a valuable metal, so it is important to take steps to protect it from theft.
### How to Invest in Gold
There are a number of ways to invest in gold. You can buy physical gold, such as coins or bars, or you can invest in gold ETFs or mutual funds. You can also invest in gold mining stocks.
**Physical gold**
Physical gold is the most direct way to invest in gold. You can buy physical gold from a variety of sources, including coin dealers, banks, and online retailers. Physical gold can be stored in a safe place at home, or you can store it in a safe deposit box at a bank.
**Gold ETFs and mutual funds**
Gold ETFs and mutual funds are a convenient way to invest in gold without having to buy physical gold. Gold ETFs are traded on stock exchanges, and gold mutual funds are managed by professional investment managers.
**Gold mining stocks**
Gold mining stocks are a way to invest in gold without having to buy physical gold or gold ETFs. Gold mining stocks represent ownership in companies that mine gold.
### Conclusion
Gold can be a good investment for those who are looking for a safe haven asset. However, it is important to do your research before investing in gold, and to understand the risks involved.