A Weaker Dollar Doesn't Mean U.S. Stocks Are Headed Lower - Barron'sSkip to Main ContentThis copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non-personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact Dow Jones Reprints at 1-800-843-0008 or visit www.djreprints.com.# The Dollar's Decline Doesn't Doom StocksBy [Teresa Rivas]ShareResize---ReprintsHistory suggests the relationship between the dollar an ...

Core Insights - 2026 is expected to potentially set new records for gold prices, driven by increasing global uncertainty and investor demand for gold as a safe haven [1][3] - Gold futures recently peaked at nearly $4,990 per troy ounce, indicating strong market interest [1] - The Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF (AAAU) has shown a remarkable return of 78.1% over the past year, outperforming its category averages over three and five-year periods [1][2] Company Insights - AAAU's net asset value (NAV) is based on the LBMA PM Gold Price, which is updated twice daily through an independent auction [2] - Since its acquisition by Goldman Sachs in 2020, AAAU has increased its assets under management (AUM) by approximately $2.5 billion [2] Industry Insights - Geopolitical risks, including tensions over Greenland and concerns about U.S. Treasury holdings, are significant factors contributing to the rising gold prices [3] - The declining dollar, challenges to Federal Reserve independence, and increasing U.S. debt levels are also fueling investor interest in gold [3] - AAAU is positioned as a standout gold ETF due to its lower costs, efficient operations, and ease of trading, making it an attractive option for investors seeking stability and growth [4]

Core Insights - The dollar has experienced its largest decline since 1973, according to Morgan Stanley [1] - The greenback is projected to potentially lose another 10% by the end of 2026 [1] Summary by Category - **Currency Performance** - The dollar's drop this year marks the most significant decline since 1973 [1] - A further decline of 10% is anticipated by the end of 2026 [1]

Core Insights - U.S. stock indices are reaching record highs, but international markets are outperforming them in 2025, marking a shift from the previous decade of U.S. dominance [1] - Many regions in Europe, Asia, and Latin America are cutting interest rates, creating a more predictable investment environment compared to the U.S., which is facing trade and inflation uncertainties [1] - The decline of the U.S. dollar in 2025 has positively impacted international stocks, particularly for U.S. dollar-based investors [1] - Valuations in U.S. equities have become high, prompting investors to seek opportunities in markets with lower price-to-earnings ratios [1] - Increased military-industrial spending in Europe due to geopolitical tensions is attracting investment interest [1] Market Dynamics - The easing cycle in various global markets contrasts with the Federal Reserve's cautious approach, leading to a shift in investment focus [1] - The current market environment is characterized by a lack of innovation in some international markets, but this is offset by regulatory predictability [1] - The trend of international diversification is gaining traction as investors look for opportunities outside the U.S. [1]