Investors are split in their outlook for the price of gold, according to research from Barclays Stockbrokers.
While almost a third (31 per cent), have taken a bullish approach, believing the metal has further to rise and that this is a good time to buy, 30 per cent believe the price has topped out and now is the time to sell.
Almost a fifth (18 per cent) will “hold” on to their gold investments, believing it will maintain its current value.
Barbara-Ann King, head of investment at Barclays Stockbrokers, said: “Gold is traditionally seen as a safe haven for investors in turbulent market conditions. This year saw the price of gold rise to a peak above $1,000 per troy ounce in February, before falling back again as investors took their profits.
“It has again been volatile more recently, with the price moving up sharply following the Fed’s announcement of aggressive quantitative easing in the US.”
Confident investors have the option of adding to an existing investment via a complementary product linked to gold. A range of exchange traded commodities (ETCs) can be accessed through the London Stock Exchange and there are several managed funds with a gold focus.
“Gold bulls might also want to think about investment in global gold mining companies as these could be considered as offering great value in the current market,” said Ms King.