Empowering the Future of Gold
The World Gold Council (WGC) stands as a paramount non-profit association uniting the world’s most distinguished gold producers. As a market development organization, the WGC serves as the beacon for the gold industry, propelling the demand and innovative use of gold through strategic marketing, cutting-edge research, and targeted advocacy efforts. Headquartered in London, the WGC represents markets that consume about three-quarters of the world’s annual gold supply.
Championing Gold Consumption and Innovation
A key advocate for gold consumption, the WGC tirelessly works to maximize the growth potential of the gold industry. The Council monitors and defends existing gold applications while spearheading research into novel uses of gold. One remarkable achievement includes supporting initiatives that led to the creation of jewelry comprised of 99% gold. Through such endeavors, the WGC aims to invigorate and maintain long-term demand for gold.
The Golden Legacy
Gold’s illustrious history can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, where Egyptians first smelted gold around 3600 B.C.E. In contemporary times, gold holds substantial value for both investment and its myriad applications in electronics and medical devices. Global gold mining surged post-World War II, extending across all continents save for Antarctica. Notably, new territories have surfaced as key gold producers, resulting in a more stable and geographically diversified gold mining industry. Present-day top producers include China, Russia, Australia, the United States, Canada, Peru, and Ghana.
Gold Investment: Secure and Strategic
Gold is revered as both a commodity and a solid investment option. Its non-monetary applications—such as in jewelry, electronics, and dentistry—render it a unique asset with enduring demand. Given its fixed supply on Earth, gold is immune to the arbitrary inflation affecting fiat currencies, ensuring its lasting value.
A pioneering force, the WGC introduced the first gold exchange-traded fund (ETF), revolutionizing gold investment. An ETF is a marketable security tracking an index, commodity, bonds, or a portfolio of assets, trading much like ordinary stocks but with greater liquidity and reduced fees compared to mutual funds. Gold ETFs, managed by seasoned experts, continually attract individual investors by offering favorable investment prospects with intraday price fluctuations.
Related Terms: gold market, gold ETF, gold mining companies, commodity investment.
References
- Traders’ Insight. “Top 10 Gold Producing Countries 2020”.