The aim, mindset, and long-term commitments of investors vary greatly. The perspective of investors usually centers around better rates of return. Some investors believe that precious metals provide better protection against economic emergencies. Crypto enthusiasts, on the other hand, claim that because of its decentralized nature, cryptocurrency serves as a better hedge against economic emergencies. Therefore, as investment avenues, both precious metals and cryptocurrencies require proper analysis and direct comparison.
There are scores of precious metals that people have been investing in for higher returns for decades and centuries. These mainly include gold, silver, palladium, and platinum. These precious metals have intrinsic value and serve as a hedge against inflation and economic emergencies.
Investors choose precious metals because they have a long legacy of giving good returns. In recent times, people have chosen precious metals over other investments because they feel these metals can provide protection when traditional fiat currencies falter, although the growth rate has been feeble. Some choose these for diversifying their investment portfolios. Gold continues to be the main precious metal for investment. In the last 20 years, the performance of gold has surpassed stock markets.
Precious metals have stood the test of time as a bankable source of wealth for generations. These metals are tangible assets in the legal sense and therefore instill a sense of security. Although portfolio diversification is not a unique advantage, nevertheless many investors perceive these metals as a superior alternative for it.
Cryptocurrencies fare much better because of their unprecedented growth in the last few years. Ever since its inception in 2009, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have registered over 9,000,000% growth. Although cryptos are volatile, the decentralized nature of cryptos gives it a distinct advantage over all other traditional modes of investment.
Cryptocurrencies have the potential to create an alternative financial system. It is a disruptive force and can break free from the shackles of traditional centralized financial institutions and grant financial freedom. Many proponents argue that cryptocurrencies facilitate borderless international transactions, and can act as a good hedge against inflation.
The foremost advantage of cryptocurrency is its potential for higher returns. It is true that some major cryptocurrencies have witnessed significant price surges and are lucrative for new investors. Cryptocurrencies have an edge because of their intrinsic innovative nature. Exchange platforms use blockchain technology and this has the potential to make landmark changes in many crucial sectors in the world including retail, finance, healthcare, supply chain management, cyber security, and defense. Moreover, cryptocurrencies are more financially inclusive. This is because it eliminates or considerably reduces the need for banks to engage in economic activities. Therefore, it is more financially empowering.
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Precious metals and cryptocurrencies are favorable modes of investment. However, by sheer comparison, the cryptocurrencies fare better despite being more volatile. The goodwill associated with gold, silver, platinum and palladium is mostly a product of legacy, while cryptocurrencies guarantee much more innovation. Investors who want to make more gains and have a good risk appetite should logically choose cryptocurrencies. Similarly, those who prefer liquidity and faster recovery can also choose cryptocurrencies. Nevertheless, on the issue of volatility precious metals are a better choice for risk-averse investors.