Core Viewpoint - The global financial system is under significant strain due to unprecedented debt levels, leading to a shift from paper currencies to real assets like gold as a store of value [4][7][44]. Group 1: Economic Context - The U.S. national debt reached $38 trillion in 2025, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 124%, indicating a severe financial imbalance compared to historical levels [15][19]. - The U.S. dollar's status as the world's reserve currency is increasingly questioned, with countries like China and Japan reducing their holdings of U.S. Treasuries [32][33]. - The global shadow-banking system, valued at $250 trillion, poses significant credit risks, particularly as it operates outside regulated frameworks [26]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - In 2025, U.S. markets experienced a significant downturn, with the DXY and dollar value declining, while other markets, including those in the UK and Japan, outperformed U.S. indices [21][22]. - Stock buybacks in 2025 amounted to $1.3 trillion, indicating market manipulation by insiders to inflate share prices [28]. - The reliance on AI-driven market gains, which accounted for 80% of U.S. market growth, raises concerns about sustainability and underlying economic health [23][24]. Group 3: Precious Metals Outlook - The trend towards gold and silver as superior assets is reinforced by the ongoing de-dollarization and central banks' increasing gold acquisitions [43][44]. - Despite potential short-term fluctuations, the long-term trajectory for gold and silver prices is expected to rise as paper currencies continue to lose purchasing power [48][49]. - The anticipated structural quantitative easing in 2026 is likely to further weaken the dollar, providing a favorable environment for precious metals [36][38].
Here Is The Remarkable Big Picture For Gold As We Head Into 2026