Gold vs Real Estate vs Equity

India is one of the countries where people tend to save money in bank accounts rather than investing them in a return generating field. Financial knowledge on ‘where to invest’ would be beneficial if we plan to invest our money somewhere. Gold v/s real estate is a common confusion among the people who think of investing.

Investment is not a risk-free process, and hence, it is better to have a good understanding about risks and asset classes. Every investor should choose the right asset class to invest depending on their own appetite for risk. Asset classes can be broadly classified into three; real estate, gold and equities. Equity can be stocks and mutual funds; gold can be physical or jewellery, and real estate can be equated as property.

Each of them has varying degrees of volatility and risk-return potential. Hence, before zeroing in on an asset class to invest in, it is vital to understand the pros and cons of equity v/s gold v/s real estate.

Let us take a closer look at these assets which constitute the conventional investment portfolio of an Indian investor. So, here are the benefits and drawbacks of each asset for an easy comparison of gold v/s real estate v/s stocks in India.

Key Benefits

• Diversifies the investment portfolio and reduces the risk associated with parking all funds at a place.

• It is relatively easy to liquidate the stocks and funds.

• You will have the potential to earn high returns.

• In case of mutual funds, you can start with a minimum amount of Rs. 1,000.

• Money is handled by professional fund managers.

• Post-tax returns are efficient.

Drawbacks

• High risk associated with the short term investments.

• High volatility in the short term investments.

• Difficult to choose stocks.

Key Benefits

• It is easy to invest in physical gold.

• Gold investments will give high dividends over the long-term.

• You can convert gold into jewellery and ornaments for personal use.

• You can avail of loans easily by mortgaging the gold.

Drawbacks

• Price of gold is associated with several macro-economic factors.

• There are no tax advantages for gold investments.

• Storing gold possesses high security risks.

• Cost of storing and maintaining gold is high.

• No regular income in the form of dividends or rent.

• Transparency in case of buying and selling gold is low.

Key Benefits

• Comparatively low volatility.

• A gradual increase in market prices will lend stability to your investment.

• You can avail of house loans easily by mortgaging the property.

• If the property is rented out, you can earn regular income.

Drawbacks

• Requires a large capital to invest in property.

• High transaction costs due to stamp duty and registration.

• Cost of maintaining the property is high.

• Liquidity is low, since properties are difficult to sell immediately. So, it is not easy to use this investment during emergencies.