Luke Austin

Last updated on October 4th, 2024

In today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, investors are constantly seeking alternative stores of value. Gold and cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, have emerged as compelling options. In this blog, we will delve into the investment potential and risks associated with these two assets, offering a comprehensive comparison to help you make informed decisions.

Historical Significance and Performance

Gold: A Timeless Store of Value

Gold has held a significant place in the world’s financial history, dating back thousands of years. Its enduring allure as a store of value stems from its intrinsic characteristics and historical track record. Gold’s history includes periods of boom and bust, but it has consistently maintained its value over the long term.

Throughout history, gold has played pivotal roles in various civilizations, from ancient Egypt’s use in burial tombs to the Gold Rush era in the United States. It’s also been the basis for currency systems and has backed central bank reserves. The historical performance of gold as an investment is marked by stability and reliability

Bitcoin: A Revolutionary Digital Asset

In contrast to gold’s millennia-old history, Bitcoin is a relatively new addition to the world of finance. Created in 2009 by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin introduced a revolutionary concept – digital scarcity. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature, enabled by blockchain technology, promised to disrupt traditional financial systems.

Bitcoin’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable. Its value has experienced meteoric rises and precipitous falls, attracting both mainstream attention and skepticism. Its price volatility has made headlines, with notable bull and bear markets. Despite this volatility, Bitcoin has demonstrated the potential for substantial returns, sparking interest from investors worldwide.

Do you know why you must invest in gold in Kuwait?

Supply and Scarcity

Gold: Limited and Tangible Supply

One of gold’s fundamental attributes is its limited supply. The finite quantity of gold on Earth, combined with the difficulty and cost of mining and refining, contributes to its scarcity. This scarcity has been a cornerstone of gold’s value for centuries.

However, it’s essential to note that discoveries and advances in mining technology can impact the future supply of gold. While these developments may affect the market dynamics, they are unlikely to change the fact that gold remains a precious and finite resource.

Bitcoin: Digital Scarcity Through Halving

Bitcoin takes scarcity to a new level by incorporating it directly into its protocol. The mechanism known as “halving” occurs approximately every four years, reducing the rate at which new Bitcoins are created by half. This process continues until the maximum supply of 21 million Bitcoins is reached, making it deflationary.

Bitcoin’s fixed supply and predetermined issuance schedule provide a level of scarcity not found in traditional assets like gold. This feature is a driving force behind its appeal as a digital store of value.

Store of Value Attributes

Gold: Tangibility and Inherent Value

Gold’s value is rooted in its physical properties. It is a tangible asset with intrinsic worth, which includes its malleability, conductivity, and resistance to corrosion. Beyond its monetary value, gold has practical uses in jewelry, electronics, and dentistry. Central banks worldwide hold significant gold reserves, reinforcing their status as a store of value.

These attributes provide a sense of security to gold investors. Even in times of financial turmoil, gold’s inherent value remains intact, making it a reliable asset to preserve wealth.

Bitcoin: Digital and Decentralized Store of Value

Bitcoin’s store of value characteristics are distinct from gold. It relies on digital code and decentralized ledger technology to establish trust and immutability. Bitcoin’s blockchain ensures that transactions are transparent and secure, eliminating the need for intermediaries.

However, Bitcoin’s intangibility can be seen as both an advantage and a drawback. While it offers digital convenience and security, some investors may find it challenging to grasp its value compared to a tangible asset like gold.

Volatility and Risk

Gold: Stability and Hedging

Gold’s historical price volatility is relatively moderate compared to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. It is often used as a hedge against economic uncertainty, inflation, and currency devaluation. During times of crisis, gold tends to perform well, providing a haven for investors seeking to preserve capital.

However, gold is not without risks. Its price can fluctuate due to various factors, including changes in interest rates, geopolitical events, and currency movements. Additionally, owning physical gold comes with storage costs and security concerns.

Bitcoin: High Volatility and Speculative Nature

Bitcoin’s reputation for price volatility is well-documented. It has experienced dramatic price swings, with rapid increases and sharp declines. While this volatility has led to significant gains for some investors, it has also raised concerns about its suitability as a store of value.

Bitcoin’s speculative nature is a double-edged sword. It attracts traders seeking short-term profits but can deter risk-averse investors looking for stability. The potential for substantial gains is counterbalanced by the risk of substantial losses.

Liquidity and Accessibility

Gold: Established Markets

Gold benefits from well-established global markets, providing high liquidity. It can be bought and sold easily through various channels, including bullion dealers, jewelry stores, and online platforms. Investors have a range of options, from physical gold bars and coins to gold-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

This accessibility makes gold a versatile asset for investors of all sizes, from individual buyers to institutional investors. It also contributes to its role as a portfolio diversification tool.

Bitcoin: Accessibility and Digital Transactions

Bitcoin’s accessibility is unique in that it can be traded 24/7 on numerous cryptocurrency exchanges worldwide. Acquiring and storing Bitcoin is relatively straightforward through digital wallets. The ability to make digital transactions provides convenience and reduces the need for intermediaries.

However, Bitcoin’s accessibility also raises regulatory and security concerns. The evolving nature of cryptocurrency regulations can impact the legality and taxation of Bitcoin investments. Investors need to stay informed and compliant with changing regulations.

Regulation and Taxation

Gold: Established Regulations

Gold investments are subject to established regulations in most jurisdictions. These regulations primarily concern the purity and quality of gold products and the taxation of gains from gold sales. The stability of the regulatory environment surrounding gold investments is generally well-established.

Investors can typically rely on a transparent and predictable framework when investing in physical gold or gold-related financial products like ETFs.

Bitcoin: Evolving Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin is still evolving. Different countries have varying approaches to cryptocurrency regulation, ranging from embracing it to imposing strict restrictions. Changes in regulations can impact the legality and taxation of Bitcoin transactions.

Investors in Bitcoin should be aware of and compliant with the regulatory requirements in their respective jurisdictions. Staying informed about developments in cryptocurrency regulations is essential to avoid legal issues and tax liabilities.

Portfolio Diversification

Gold: Traditional Portfolio Hedge

Gold has a long history as a diversification tool in investment portfolios. It has shown a tendency to perform well when traditional assets like stocks and bonds face challenges. Adding gold to a portfolio can help reduce overall risk and increase diversification.

Investors often allocate a portion of their portfolios to gold to mitigate the impact of market volatility and economic uncertainty.

Bitcoin: Modern Portfolio Diversification

Bitcoin’s potential as a portfolio diversifier has gained recognition in recent years. It operates independently of traditional markets and can exhibit non-correlated price movements. Including Bitcoin in a diversified investment strategy can help offset risks associated with traditional assets.

However, it’s important to note that Bitcoin’s high volatility makes it a more speculative addition to a portfolio. Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and investment goals before incorporating Bitcoin.

Conclusion

In the quest for alternative stores of value, both gold and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offer unique investment potential and risks. Gold’s historical significance and stability make it a time-tested choice, while Bitcoin’s digital scarcity and decentralization appeal to a new generation of investors. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to weigh the attributes and risks of each asset class carefully. Whether you opt for the tangible allure of gold or the digital revolution of Bitcoin, a diversified approach to wealth preservation and growth remains a prudent strategy in today’s dynamic financial landscape.

In Islam, Zakat is one of the five pillars and an essential religious obligation for all Muslims. It is an act of charity and a way to purify one’s wealth. In this article, we will discuss the importance of Zakat on gold and how to calculate it according to Islamic guidelines.

Gold holds a significant position in Islamic culture and tradition. It has been used as a currency for the trade and exchange of goods for centuries. Therefore, Zakat on gold is one of the most important aspects of Zakat in Islam. It is a way to distribute wealth among the poor and needy and promote social justice.

In this article, we will provide an overview of Zakat on gold and its importance in Islam. We will also discuss the calculation of Zakat on gold, the Nisab of Zakat, and how to pay Zakat on gold.

Zakat on Gold in Islam

Zakat on gold is a religious obligation for Muslims who possess gold for one complete lunar year. It is considered one of the most important acts of worship in Islam. Fulfilling this obligation is essential, as it purifies one’s wealth and promotes social justice. By giving a portion of their wealth to the poor and needy, Muslims show gratitude to Allah for His blessings.

Nisab of Zakat on Gold in Tola and Grams

The Nisab is the minimum wealth a Muslim must possess before they are obligated to pay Zakat. The Nisab for Zakat on gold is based on the market value of gold and varies in different regions. The Nisab for Zakat on gold in Tola in Pakistan for the year 2023 is 7.5 Tola, while the Nisab for Zakat on gold per gram is 87.48 grams.

Check the gold rates in these Islamic countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman, Bangladesh, and Dubai,

To determine the Nisab amount, Muslims need to calculate the current market value of gold in their region and multiply it by the applicable Nisab rate. If the total value of their gold exceeds the Nisab amount, then they are obligated to pay Zakat for it.

Zakat on Gold Jewellery in Islam

Zakat obligation also applies to gold jewelry owned by Muslims. To calculate the Zakat on gold jewelry, one needs to determine the gold content of the jewelry and calculate the Zakat based on the weight or value of the gold content.

How to Calculate Zakat on Gold

There are various methods of calculating Zakat on gold. The most common method is to calculate it based on the weight of gold one possesses. The rate of Zakat on gold is 2.5%, which means that 2.5% of the total weight of gold owned must be given in Zakat. It can also be calculated based on the value of gold or both.

For example, if someone owns 10 Tola of gold, they need to calculate the current market value of the gold and multiply it by 2.5%. This will give them the Zakat amount that they are obligated to pay.

Zakat on 1 Tola Gold in Pakistan 2023

In Pakistan, the Zakat rate on 1 Tola of gold for the year 2023 is 0.1316 Tola. To calculate the Zakat on 1 Tola of gold, one needs to multiply the current market value of 1 Tola of gold by 0.1316.

Zakat on Gold per Tola and per Gram

Zakat rates for gold per Tola and per gram differ, and it is essential to understand the difference in calculation between Zakat on gold per Tola and per gram. The Zakat rate for gold per gram is higher than the rate per Tola. Therefore, it is necessary to calculate the Zakat rate based on the measurement unit used.

How to Pay Zakat on Gold

Zakat can be paid to the needy and deserving people directly or through an Islamic charity organization. It is essential to ensure that the recipients of Zakat are eligible according to Islamic guidelines. Zakat must be paid on time, and it is important to understand the proper distribution of Zakat funds.

Zakat on Gold in Urdu

Agar aap ke paas 85 gram son se ziyada ki miqdaar hai, to aap ko is par Zakat dene ka farz hota hai jis ki sharah total qeemat ki 2.5% hai. Yad rahey ke Zakat son ki zevarat par lagoo nahi hoti jo rozana pehnayi jati hain ya shakhsi zevarat ki shakal mein istemaal ki jati hain.

Lihaza, agar aap ke paas son hai jo sarmaya kaari ya karobaar ke maqasad ke liye hai, to aap ko Zakat ka hisaab lagaana aur is ki adaigi karna zaroori hai. Is farz ko ada karna ek musalman ki aik aham zimmedaari hai.

Conclusion

Zakat on gold is an essential religious obligation for Muslims. Fulfilling this obligation purifies one’s wealth and promotes social justice by helping the poor and needy. Muslims must understand the calculation and payment of Zakat on gold to fulfill this obligation correctly. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on Zakat on gold in Islam, from its religious obligation to its calculation, payment, and importance in Pakistan. It is crucial to encourage further education and awareness of Zakat in Islam to continue fulfilling this act of worship properly.

FAQ’s

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions listed below:

What is the importance of Zakat on Gold in Islam?

Zakat on Gold is an essential obligation in Islam as it purifies one’s wealth and promotes social justice by helping the poor and needy.

How is Zakat on Gold calculated?

Zakat on Gold can be calculated based on weight, value, or both. The rate of Zakat on Gold is 2.5%, which means that 2.5% of the total weight of gold owned must be given in Zakat.

What is the Nisab of Zakat on Gold in Tola and Grams?

The Nisab is the minimum wealth a Muslim must possess before they are obligated to pay Zakat. The Nisab for Zakat on Gold in Tola and Grams varies in different regions and is based on the current market value of gold.

Do I have to pay Zakat on Gold Jewelry?

Yes, the Zakat obligation also applies to gold jewelry owned by Muslims. To calculate the Zakat on gold jewelry, one needs to determine the gold content of the jewelry and calculate the Zakat based on the weight or value of the gold content.

How do I pay Zakat on Gold?

Zakat can be paid directly to the needy and deserving people or through an Islamic charity organization. It is crucial to ensure that the recipients of Zakat are eligible according to Islamic guidelines. It is also important to pay Zakat on time and understand the proper distribution of Zakat funds.

What is the Zakat rate on 1 Tola of Gold in Pakistan in 2023?

In Pakistan, the Zakat rate on 1 Tola of Gold for the year 2023 is 0.1316 Tola.

How can I determine the current market value of gold in my region?

You can determine the current market value of gold in your region by checking with your local jewelers or using online gold rate calculators.

Is it necessary to pay Zakat on Gold every year?

Yes, Zakat on Gold is a yearly obligation for Muslims who possess gold for one complete lunar year.

Can I pay Zakat on Gold in installments?

Yes, you can pay Zakat on Gold in installments if it is difficult for you to pay the full amount at once.

What is the penalty for not paying Zakat on Gold?

Not fulfilling the Zakat obligation is considered a sin in Islam. Muslims who do not pay Zakat on Gold may face spiritual and worldly consequences according to Islamic teachings.

Investing in gold has been a time-honored strategy for securing wealth for centuries. Gold is considered a safe haven asset that can shield investors from economic uncertainty. However, it’s also important to acknowledge that investing in gold has its fair share of disadvantages that should be taken into account before making any investment decisions.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the major drawbacks of investing in gold as a financial asset. We’ll take a look at the limited income potential, volatile market, gold price fluctuation, and storage and insurance costs associated with investing in gold.

Major Drawbacks of Investing in Gold

While gold has its advantages, it also has several disadvantages as a financial asset. Here are some of the main drawbacks of investing in gold:

Limited Income Potential

Gold is often considered a safe haven asset that can protect investors from economic uncertainty. However, compared to other investment assets, gold has limited income potential. Unlike stocks and bonds, gold doesn’t generate any income in the form of dividends or interest payments. This means that investing in gold can be less attractive for investors who are looking for regular income from their investments.

Lack of Cash Flows

One of the major reasons for gold’s limited income potential is its lack of cash flow. Unlike other assets, such as stocks, which generate income through dividends, or bonds, which generate income through interest payments, gold doesn’t generate any income. As a result, investors who are looking for regular income from their investments may prefer other assets that offer better income potential.

Opportunity Cost

Another factor that can impact gold’s income potential is the opportunity cost of investing in gold. When an investor puts money into gold, that money isn’t available for investing in other assets that may have better income potential. For example, if an investor puts money into gold instead of stocks, they may miss out on the potential dividends that stocks offer. This is known as the opportunity cost of investing in gold.

Volatile Market

Another major disadvantage of investing in gold is its volatile market. Gold prices can be unpredictable and subject to rapid swings, which can lead to potential losses for investors. Several macroeconomic factors, including inflation, interest rates, and currency fluctuations, can impact the value of gold.

For example, when interest rates rise, the value of gold tends to decline. This is because higher interest rates can increase the opportunity cost of holding gold, as other assets may offer better returns. Additionally, currency fluctuations can impact the value of gold, as gold is priced in US dollars. If the US dollar weakens, gold prices may rise, and if the US dollar strengthens, gold prices may fall.

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Speculation and Manipulation

Speculation and manipulation in the gold market can also exacerbate price swings. For example, rumors about central bank actions or large trades in the gold market can lead to speculation and cause prices to fluctuate rapidly. In some cases, market manipulation can also impact gold prices.

Storage and Insurance Costs

Investing in physical gold requires storage and insurance costs, which can add up over time. The cost of secure storage and insurance can reduce potential returns and increase the overall cost of investing in gold.

Risk of Fraud

Gold investments can also be subject to fraud, especially when dealing with unscrupulous dealers or brokers. Investors need to be careful to only buy gold from reputable sources and to verify the purity and authenticity of the gold they purchase.

Conclusion

Investing in gold has several advantages, including diversification benefits and protection against economic uncertainty. However, investors also need to consider the drawbacks of investing in gold, including its limited income potential and volatile market.

Additionally, the costs associated with storing and insuring physical gold can add to the overall cost of investing in gold. Therefore, investors need to carefully consider the pros and cons of investing in gold and weigh them against their investment goals and risk tolerance. For investors who still want to invest in gold, investing in gold ETFs or other gold-related financial products can be a more cost-effective option.

FAQ’s

Here below are some of the frequently asked questions:

What are some disadvantages of investing in gold?

Investing in gold has its drawbacks. Despite being a popular choice among investors, it comes with its share of risks. Some of the disadvantages of investing in gold include a lack of cash flow, high transaction costs, and storage issues. Additionally, gold’s value can fluctuate wildly, which can result in significant losses for investors.

Is investing in gold a risky investment?

Like any investment, investing in gold carries risk. Gold is a commodity that experiences significant fluctuations in value based on a variety of factors, such as supply and demand, political and economic conditions, and market sentiment. These fluctuations can lead to significant losses for investors, especially those who don’t have a diversified portfolio.

Can investing in gold lead to a lack of diversification?

Investing solely in gold can lead to a lack of diversification, which can be risky for investors. Diversification is important in investing because it spreads out your investment across different asset classes, sectors, and regions, reducing your overall risk. By investing only in gold, you are limiting your exposure to other asset classes and sectors, which can be a disadvantage in terms of risk management.

Are storage issues a concern when investing in gold?

Yes, storage is a major concern when investing in physical gold. Unlike other investments like stocks or bonds, gold cannot be stored digitally or in a bank account. Investors must physically store their gold, which can be expensive and risky. Investors may have to pay for a secure storage facility, which can be costly, and there is always a risk of theft or loss.

Is transaction costs a significant disadvantage of investing in gold?

Yes, transaction costs are a significant disadvantage of investing in gold. Buying and selling gold often involves high transaction costs, such as commission fees and taxes. These costs can add up over time and eat into an investor’s returns. Additionally, the bid-ask spread for gold can be wide, which means investors may not get the best price when buying or selling.

If you’re in the market for exquisite jewelry pieces that are both stunning and timeless, you’ll want to check them out. We gathered a list of all the premier jewelry stores located in the heart of Jackson Heights.

They have all you need from classic engagement rings to unique and fashionable earrings, these jewelers create beautiful, high-quality pieces that are sure to make a statement. With a dedication to exceptional customer service, they strive to make every shopping experience a memorable one.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes them one of the top jewelry stores in Jackson Heights, exploring products, and services, and what sets them apart from the competition. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or searching for the perfect gift, we’re confident you’ll find something you love at these Indian jewelry stores situated in Jackson Heights.

Jackson Heights Gold Prices

Check the Jackson Heights Gold Prices in Gram, Ounce, and Tola quantities. These gold rates are available in 24Carat, 22Carat, 21Carat, 20Carat, 18Carat, and 14Carat purities.

Gram Gold Prices Jackson Heights

Ounce Gold Rate Jackson Heights

Per Tola Gold Price Jackson Heights

Also, Check Gold Prices in the USA Today

Top Five Jackson Heights Jewelry Stores

Here is the list of the top five Jackson Heights Jewelry Stores where you can buy gold jewelry:

Kunal Jewelers

Address: 37-08 74th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Phone: (718) 478-7200

Jewelers Emporium

Address: 37-06 82nd St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Phone: (718) 426-0088

Omar Jewelers

Address: 73, 11 A 37th Rd, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Phone: (718) 505-1162

Alankar Jewelers

Address: 37-45 74th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Phone: (718) 205-6500

Devisons Jewelers

Address: 3765 82nd St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Phone: (718) 457-5365