Definition ∞ Precious metals are rare metallic elements, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, possessing high economic value due to their scarcity, industrial utility, and historical role as monetary assets. They are frequently used as investment vehicles and hedges against economic volatility.
Context ∞ These materials are often referenced in cryptocurrency news for comparison with digital assets like Bitcoin, particularly regarding their function as alternative stores of value. Market analyses frequently assess the relative performance and perceived safety of digital currencies against traditional precious metals during periods of economic shifts.