Gold vs equity in uncertain times: What the data says

In 2025, you’re navigating a landscape marked by persistent inflation, geopolitical shocks, and volatile markets. If you’re weighing gold against equities as a safe haven or growth engine, you’re not alone. The data from the last few years tells a nuanced story – gold has outpaced Indian equities in the short term, but the long-term picture still favours equities for wealth creation. Understanding when and why each asset shines will help you make smarter investment decisions as uncertainty continues to define the global economy.

Gold: The safe-haven star in turbulent times

When uncertainty spikes, gold’s reputation as a store of value and a hedge against inflation draws investors in droves. Over the past five years, gold in India has surged 70–75%, outshining the Sensex’s 50–60% rise in the same period. This outperformance is no coincidence. Gold’s rally has been powered by -

• Inflationary pressures eroding fiat currency value.

• Central banks globally ramping up gold reserves.

• Geopolitical tensions and trade disputes, which push investors toward safety.

• A weakening rupee, which makes gold more attractive for Indian investors.

You’ve seen this play out during every recent crisis. In the 2008 financial meltdown, gold soared while stocks crashed. During the Covid-19 shock in early 2020, Nifty plummeted 38% while gold gained 14%. In 2010–11, amid global debt worries, gold jumped 63% as Nifty slipped 12%. Each time uncertainty strikes, gold steps up as a stabiliser, protecting your portfolio from the worst market storms.

Equities: The long-term growth

Despite gold’s stellar performance in times of crisis, equities remain the unrivalled engine for long-term wealth creation. Over 10- and 20-year periods, Indian equities have consistently outperformed gold. For example, the Sensex has delivered average 10-year rolling returns of 13.55%, compared to gold’s 9.85%. Over the last 25 years, gold’s annualised return stands at 12.55%, while the Sensex has delivered 10.73%—but this includes periods when gold was at a cyclical peak. When you zoom out, equities have beaten gold in 64% of all 10-year periods since 1984.

Why do equities win over time? Because they’re powered by economic growth, rising corporate earnings, and the compounding effect of reinvested profits. When India’s GDP grows, corporate earnings and stock prices typically follow suit. This makes equities the preferred asset for long-term investors willing to stomach short-term volatility for higher returns.

Gold vs equity – Taking your pick

Risk, volatility, and portfolio role

• Gold is less volatile, offers high liquidity, and acts as a hedge against inflation and currency depreciation. However, it doesn’t produce dividends or regular income, and its price can stagnate during bull markets.

• Equities are more volatile and sensitive to economic cycles but reward you with dividends, capital appreciation, and the power of compounding. They’re ideal for long-term wealth creation, especially if you can ride out short-term market swings. 2025 outlook

So far in 2025, gold has been a better performing asset class, rising over 20% in the first four months alone. This surge is fuelled by continued central bank buying, persistent inflation, and a series of geopolitical flashpoints. Domestic gold prices have breached Rs. 1 lakh per 10 grams, with forecasts suggesting further upside if uncertainty lingers.

Equities, meanwhile, are expected to regain their edge as the Indian economy grows and corporate earnings rebound. Multiple reports project that equities will likely outperform gold over the next three years, especially if economic expansion continues and inflation moderates.

Conclusion

As you look ahead, remember that neither gold nor equities alone can future-proof your wealth. The real edge comes from understanding their complementary roles. In 2025, with global central banks still buying gold and Indian equities poised for a rebound, you have a unique window to harness both safety and growth. Use gold to anchor your portfolio when the markets feel shaky, but don’t miss out on the compounding power of equities as the economy recovers. The data says it all: balance, not bias, is your best bet for thriving through uncertainty.