Comparison between performance of gold bullion and stock as investment options is inevitable. Though they belong to different asset class, primary aim of investing in both of them is reaping profit. According to some economic analysts, people buy gold bullion for better store value while they prefer stocks for better return value. But, this is not the full side of a highly volatile story called growth. Political stability is the major factor ensuring compounding growth of stocks and bonds. Stock market trembles when there is political instability. But, bullion market is less volatile in this regard. Its price remains more or less stable irrespective of political factors. To simplify, bullion market has better return on investment (ROI) over stocks and bonds even during political instability and turmoil. Hence, people buy gold bullion for steady income flow

Studies have found that return on stock is cyclic in nature. For long term and sustainable result, the investor has to maintain a diversified portfolio and should have the courage to face the lean period. A recent survey regarding preference of investors over stock in Google and investment in gold has proven the growing inclination of people to buy gold bullion. During the survey period, both bond of Google and an ounce of gold had same market price. But, with in two months of survey gold price outpaced stock price by 30.77%. This indicates the superiority of gold and silver over stock market investment.

Demand is the vital factor deciding the price and return on any financial product. In this aspect, gold also outperforms stocks and bonds. Demand for stocks and bonds depend upon a number of factors including the concerned company current profit, future plans and anticipated growth rate. But, gold bullion demand is more or less steady. It means gold has the potential of offering steady return in both short term and long term. People also buy gold bullion for its better liquid value compared to stocks and bonds. It can be immediately liquefied without help of any intermediary or broker. Investing in gold bullion has its own sets of limitation too. It is tangible in nature and prone to risks like theft. In this regard, stocks and bonds are less risky.

Last March 28, 2008 on a Saturday evening, a huge number of Filipinos participated in the 1 hour lights off time. It began around 8:30 – 9:30 pm in participation to the Earth Hour campaign. Philippines were ranked no.1 according to a representative of WWF or World Wildlife Fund.

There were over 15 million Filipino participants in 650 main cities and towns from far-flung islands who joined the movement. The country was ranked 1st in city and town contribution among 88 countries and 25 dissimilar time zones.

In this campaign, it only goes to show that Filipinos are truly competent. In fact, even the participants from the country would not believe for ranking first in the campaign and even defeated Australia.

Australia is one of the administrators of Earth Hour which was started during March 31, 2007. In this year’s campaign, Australia ranked 3rd with a totality of 309 cities and towns. Greece was 2nd having 484 cities and towns that participated. This is the 2nd occasion that Philippines participated in Earth Hour movement. (more…)