Why 98% of gold investors don't actually own a gold bar—and why that’s a problem

"Many people may not realize that a staggering 98% of individuals who invest in gold do not physically own a gold bar, opting instead for alternative forms of investment such as gold stocks, ETFs, or futures contracts. This is concerning for several reasons: not only does this detachment from physical ownership mean that these investors are potentially vulnerable to market fluctuations and liquidity issues, but it also raises questions about the actual value and security of their investments in times of economic uncertainty. As a result, understanding the implications of this disconnect between gold investment and physical ownership becomes crucial for anyone looking to safeguard their wealth." source: https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2026/01/25/why-98-of-gold-investors-don-t-actually-own-a-gold-bar-and-why-that-s-a-problem