Hard Assets

Definition ∞ Hard Assets are tangible physical goods or properties that possess intrinsic value, often serving as a store of wealth or a hedge against inflation. Examples include real estate, precious metals like gold and silver, commodities, and machinery. These assets typically retain their value during economic instability and are less susceptible to rapid depreciation than financial instruments. They represent a fundamental component of investment portfolios.
Context ∞ In times of economic uncertainty, hard assets frequently appear in financial news as investors seek stability. Discussions often compare their performance against digital assets, with some cryptocurrencies positioned as “digital gold.” The ongoing debate concerns the relative safety, liquidity, and accessibility of hard assets compared to new forms of digital wealth in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.