Spot Gold$2,348.12+0.84%Silver$28.41-0.22%

American-owned • Editorially independent•Est. 2018

Head-to-Head Comparison

GoldvsInternational Stocks

Which asset better protects your retirement savings? We compare physical gold against International Stocks (EFA) on returns, risk, and inflation protection.

Gold Advantage Score: 95/100

Gold is the stronger retirement investment compared to International Stocks (EFA). With a Gold Advantage Score of 95/100, physical gold offers lower volatility (15.2% vs 18.2%), better inflation protection (correlation: +0.68 vs -0.08), and a smaller maximum drawdown (-44% vs -62%). For retirees prioritizing wealth preservation over speculation, gold is the clear choice.

Hard Asset

Physical Gold

RECOMMENDED

Physical gold bullion, the ultimate store of value for 5,000 years.

10-Year Return

+8.4%

annualized

Volatility

15.2%

std deviation

Max Drawdown-44%

Inflation Correlation+0.68

Key Benefits

Zero counterparty risk

Cannot be printed or devalued

Recognized globally as money

Central banks hold 35,000+ tonnes

Paper Asset

International Stocks

Ticker

EFA

Developed market stocks outside the US. Diversification that hasn't paid off.

10-Year Return

+4.2%

annualized

Volatility

18.2%

std deviation

Max Drawdown-62%

Inflation Correlation-0.08

Key Risks

Underperformed US for 15 years

Currency risk adds volatility

Europe stagnating economically

Japan in permanent deflation

Performance Comparison

Metric	Gold	International Stocks	Winner
1-Year Return	13.2%	12.4%	GOLD
5-Year Return	10.8%	6.8%	GOLD
10-Year Return	8.4%	4.2%	GOLD
Volatility (Lower = Better)	15.2%	18.2%	GOLD
Max Drawdown (Smaller = Better)	-44%	-62%	GOLD
Inflation Protection	0.68	-0.08	GOLD

The Verdict: Gold vs International Stocks

While International Stocks may offer higher short-term returns, gold provides superior wealth protection for retirees. Gold's lower volatility, better inflation correlation, and zero counterparty risk make it the smarter choice for preserving purchasing power.

Find Your Ideal Gold IRA Compare Top Companies

More Gold Comparisons

Gold vs Google (Alphabet)

stock

Gold vs Microsoft

Gold vs International Stocks FAQs

Is gold a better investment than International Stocks?

Gold and International Stocks serve different purposes. Gold is a wealth preservation asset with low volatility (15.2%) and strong inflation protection. International Stocks is a index asset with lower 10-year returns (4.2% vs 8.4%) but higher risk. For retirement, most advisors recommend holding both.

Should I invest in gold or International Stocks for retirement?

For retirement portfolios, the answer is usually both. Gold provides crisis protection and inflation hedging, while International Stocks can provide growth potential. A common recommendation is 10-15% of your portfolio in gold with the remainder in diversified assets. The key is that gold moves independently of index assets, providing true diversification.

How does gold's performance compare to International Stocks during market crashes?

Gold has historically performed well during market crashes — rising 25% during the 2008 financial crisis and holding steady during 2022. International Stocks had a maximum drawdown of -62% compared to gold's -44%. This inverse relationship is why gold is called a "safe haven" asset.

Can I hold both gold and International Stocks in an IRA?

Yes, but not in the same account. A standard IRA can hold International Stocks and other paper assets. Physical gold requires a self-directed Gold IRA with an approved custodian and depository. You can maintain both accounts simultaneously to get exposure to both asset classes with tax advantages.

Ready to Add Gold to Your Retirement?

Take our 60-second quiz to find the best Gold IRA company for your situation. Get personalized recommendations and a free investor kit.

Take the Quiz

Our #1 Recommendation

Ready to Protect Your Retirement?

Augusta Precious Metals has been rated #1 in our comprehensive review. Their education-first approach means you'll never feel pressured. Request a free info kit today.

A+ BBB Rating

4.9/5 Rating

Lifetime Support