GoldvsUS Dollar (Cash)
Which asset better protects your retirement savings? We compare physical gold against US Dollar (Cash) (USD) on returns, risk, and inflation protection.
Physical Gold
Physical gold bullion, the ultimate store of value for 5,000 years.
US Dollar (Cash)
The world's reserve currency, losing purchasing power every year to inflation.
Performance Comparison
| Metric | Gold | US Dollar (Cash) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Return | 13.2% | -3.5% | GOLD |
| 5-Year Return | 10.8% | -3.2% | GOLD |
| 10-Year Return | 8.4% | -2.8% | GOLD |
| Volatility (Lower = Better) | 15.2% | 0% | USD |
| Max Drawdown (Smaller = Better) | -44% | 0% | USD |
| Inflation Protection | 0.68 | -1.00 | GOLD |
The Verdict: Gold vs US Dollar (Cash)
While US Dollar (Cash) may offer higher short-term returns, gold provides superior wealth protection for retirees. Gold's lower volatility, better inflation correlation, and zero counterparty risk make it the smarter choice for preserving purchasing power.
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