Many people believe that gold is the "safest" asset, but the truth is more complex. When measured by real purchasing power—that is, what 1 ounce of gold today can buy compared to 1982—we find that gold in 1982 was actually about 16% more expensive than it is today. What does this figure mean? It suggests that gold's value has changed over time, and understanding this helps investors see that gold isn't always the most reliable store of value in the long term. Factors such as inflation, market demand, and economic stability all influence gold prices, making it essential to consider these elements when evaluating gold as an investment.