Why You Cannot Invest In Gold

It is soapbox time. People ask me, "Should I be 'investing' in gold?" Advertisements show gold to be the best way to safeguard your portfolio, your family, and your four-legged friend. Many of these ads have one thing in common - they prey on your fear. They implant that seed of doubt and fear, and then exploit it by assuring you that gold will be there for you, when the world comes crashing down.

Let's break this down, piece by piece. 

If your worst fears come to fruition and the United States sinks to a land of financial ruin, government overthrow, complete anarchy...will gold be there to comfort you? 

Let's just assume that this is a legit end of the U.S. Our money is worthless, stocks all fall to zero, the sky turns dark, pigs are flying...you get the picture. What are you going to do with your gold? Buy food and water? No, the guys with guns and weapons will be getting that before you and/or from you. If you really want to prepare for the end, build a fortress, stock up on non-perishable goods, and load up on weapons. Do I advise this? Absolutely NOT. This would be a huge waste in my expert opinion. 

What about inflation? The U.S. is printing money and gold will be the best place to keep up with inflation.