Core Insights - Gold is currently experiencing a strong rally, with prices surging nearly 50% in the past year, driven by factors such as geopolitical tensions, low interest rates, and inflation concerns [2][9] - The S&P 500 has shown a 12-month total return of around 16%, which is solid compared to its historical average of 10% [2][4] - Gold serves as a hedge or insurance, while stocks are viewed as growth engines, with stocks typically recovering more quickly from downturns compared to gold's prolonged periods of inactivity [1][7] Historical Context - Historical data indicates that gold often experiences long periods of decline after reaching peaks, such as the US$ 850/oz in 1980 and US$ 1,900/oz in 2011, while the S&P 500 has long-term average annual returns of around 10% [4][5] - In instances of stock market corrections (10-20%), recovery tends to occur more rapidly than gold's extended dormancy periods [5][6] Investment Strategy - Investors acquiring gold should view it as insurance, accepting the possibility of flat returns during improving conditions, while stock investments are aimed at growth, with a historical tendency for quicker recovery [6][7] - A balanced investment strategy may involve allocating resources to both gold for protection and stocks for growth [6] Future Considerations - The performance of gold and stocks in the coming years will be influenced by inflation, interest rates, global growth, and investor sentiment [7][9] - If real interest rates remain low or negative, gold may continue to rise, but a robust global economic recovery could lead to stagnation in gold prices as investor focus shifts back to growth assets [9]

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING - AUGUST 22: Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is seen walking in Grand Teton National Park on August 22, 2025 near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Powell spoke Friday at the annual Jackson Hole Economic Symposium. (Photo by Natalie Behring/Getty Images)Getty Images In a highly anticipated event for global markets, the U.S. Federal Reserve's Open Market Committee is set to meet on September 16-17. Current market positioning suggests a strong expectation of a 25-basis-point rate cut among a ...