Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent surge in gold prices, highlighting a potential long-term bull market driven by various economic and geopolitical factors, suggesting that gold is becoming a core asset in investment portfolios [2][3][4]. Gold Market Performance - In 2024, gold prices increased by 27.2% in USD and 35.6% in EUR, with spot gold rising from $2657 to over $3600 per ounce, marking a nearly 40% increase within the year [3]. - The prediction for gold prices by the end of the decade is $4800 per ounce under baseline scenarios, potentially reaching $8900 per ounce in high inflation scenarios [4]. Economic Drivers - The article identifies three main drivers for gold's strong performance: debt crises, persistent inflation, and geopolitical tensions [7]. - The U.S. federal debt has surpassed $36 trillion, with interest payments exceeding military spending, indicating a critical financial situation [8]. - Inflation remains stubbornly high, with U.S. core CPI at 3.2% and Eurozone core HICP at 2.7%, suggesting ongoing inflationary pressures [10]. Central Bank Actions - Central banks globally have purchased over 1000 tons of gold for three consecutive years, with 2024 seeing a record 1086 tons bought, indicating a shift towards gold as a reserve asset [5]. - The proportion of gold in global central bank reserves has increased from approximately 9% in 2016 to 18.2% in 2024, reflecting a trend of "re-monetization" of gold [5]. Investment Strategy - The traditional 60/40 investment strategy is becoming less effective, prompting a shift towards a new asset allocation model that includes a significant portion of gold [13][14]. - A proposed new allocation model suggests 45% in stocks, 15% in bonds, 15% in safe-haven gold, and 10% in performance gold (silver and mining stocks) [16]. Market Dynamics - The article notes a negative correlation between the U.S. dollar and gold, with a weakening dollar expected to further boost gold prices [18]. - The dollar's share in global reserves has decreased from 70% to 58%, indicating a potential decline in its dominance and enhancing gold's appeal as a stable asset [18]. Practical Guidance - Investors are encouraged to consider practical strategies for gold investment, including core allocations in physical gold and gold ETFs, as well as exploring opportunities in silver and mining stocks [20].