Gold Hits Record High: Ride the Rally With These 2 Stocks & 1 ETF

Group 1: Gold Market Overview - Gold prices have surged over 50% this year, reaching an all-time high of $4,179.48 per ounce on October 14, driven by political turmoil and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts [1][9] - The increase in gold prices reflects cautious sentiment among institutional and retail investors regarding economic growth, particularly due to rising tensions between the U.S. and China [2][3] - Expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut by 25 basis points in October and November have weakened the U.S. dollar, further boosting gold prices as investors seek stability [4][6] Group 2: Central Bank Activity - Central banks globally are increasing their gold holdings to diversify reserves and reduce risks, which is expected to sustain the upward trend in gold prices over the next 12 months [5] - The U.S. dollar has experienced its worst decline in 50 years during the first half of the year, making gold more cost-effective for investors [6] Group 3: Company Performance - Newmont Corporation is a major gold producer with a projected earnings growth rate of 58.1% for the current year, driven by higher gold prices and successful growth projects [8] - Kinross Gold is also advancing its projects with an expected earnings growth rate of 111.8% for the current year, benefiting from the rising gold prices [11] - Both Newmont and Kinross Gold are positioned to see significant profit margins as gold prices continue to rise, with Goldman Sachs predicting gold could reach $4,900 per ounce by 2026 [7][9] Group 4: Investment Vehicles - The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) has gained over 50% in the past year and is designed to mimic the price of gold, offering storage and liquidity advantages [13] - Newmont and Kinross Gold currently hold a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), while GLD has a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [14]