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New Year, Same Risks Drive Gold

January 13, 2021

Read Time 7 MIN

 

Gold Support Holds In December

The Thanksgiving holiday attempt by short speculators to drive gold prices below the technically important $1,800 per ounce level failed, as gold rebounded to $1,815/oz on December 1 and gained $121.41 (6.8%) to end the month at $1,898.36/oz. Gold stocks also had strong moves with gains of 4.57% for the NYSE Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR)and 10.76% for the MVIS Global Junior Miners Index (MVGDXJTR)2.

News of vaccine shipments and shots during the month had no impact on gold, which suggests the vaccine excitement was fully priced into the gold market weakness in November. Gold trended to its monthly high of $1,906/oz on December 21, when Congress reached a final agreement on $900 billion of deficit spending for a new coronavirus relief package. Gold was also supported by a weakening dollar, which fell to new 30-month lows brought on by “risk-on” trading with new highs in the stock market. Importantly, the heavy gold bullion ETF outflows seen in November also stopped in December.

Silver sprang to life in the second half of the year, outperforming gold by 38% and gaining 16.6% in December. As both a monetary and industrial metal, silver is enjoying the best of both worlds—one of systemic risks in which gold thrives, and the other of post pandemic growth expectations and green initiatives in which copper thrives. As reference, copper ended the year at $3.52 per pound, its highest price in nearly seven years.

Looking Back On 2020…

Gold Closes The Decade Strongly

Gold gained 25.1% or $381/oz in 2020, its largest annual percentage gain in ten years. A myriad of pandemic-related drivers moved gold beginning in January with the outbreak in China. Gold advanced to seven-year highs in February as COVID spread to South Korea. However, in the last week of February, news of infections in Italy, Iran and the U.S. caused markets to crash and gold fell to its low of the year of $1,451 on March 16. Gold stocks also tumbled as investors sought to raise cash for margin calls, redemptions and risk-off positioning. Once the panic abated, gold and gold stocks snapped back, returning to their pre-crash levels in early April. Gold reached new long-term highs in April, May and June. On July 27, it surpassed the $1,921/oz all-time high set in 2011 and went on to its ultimate high of $2,075/oz on August 7.

Since August, gold has taken a breather, consolidating in the $1,800 - $2,000/oz range. News of positive COVID vaccine test results in early November brought hopes for a return to normalcy, causing gold to fall and test long-term technical support at $1,800/oz. Support held and gold trended higher in December as the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY)made new lows, ending the year at $1,898/oz.

Gains Highlighted By Market Uncertainty, Systemic Risks

The gold bull market in 2020 had a number of drivers, including:

  • Uncertainty and risks caused by the pandemic
  • U.S. Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) interest rate target cuts (to 0%), falling bond yields and negative real rates
  • Massive and unprecedented government deficit spending
  • Fed quantitative easing (to buy treasuries and mortgage backed securities at $120 billion/month)
  • Unprecedented expansion of Fed programs to purchase securities and extend credit across the economy
  • Soaring debt levels among businesses
  • Dollar weakness beginning in July
  • Trade and other tensions with China

Record inflows into gold bullion exchange traded products are a testament to how investors are using gold to protect their portfolios from currency debasement, systemic collapse or inflation that may come as the unintended consequences of zero-rate policies, massive debt loads and the trillions of dollars of liquidity being pumped into the global economy.

Miners Outpace The Metal

Gold miners’ performance outpaced gold for most of the year, despite some consolidation towards the end of the year. And while, broadly speaking, investors should expect gold equities to outperform the commodity in a rising gold price environment (due to the inherent leverage miners have to the metal), it is not uncommon to see companies underperform when carrying elevated risks. A majority of the gold miners we invested in proved adept at handling COVID protocols, while production and costs were not significantly impacted. The most successful producers remained focused on controlling costs, free cash flow, disciplined capital allocation and returns to shareholders. As well, according to quarterly reports, many of these same companies increased their dividends throughout the year and now have yields that, on average, exceed two percent.

More Of The Same For Gold In 2021?

We expect the same drivers that propelled gold in 2020 to continue in 2021. Later in the year, the world will become a very different place once the U.S. and other nations achieve herd immunity. Here we try to identify the remaining risks that might drive gold once the virus has been tamed:

  • Negative Rates & Asset Bubbles – Foremost is the risk from the distorting influence negative nominal rates, negative real rates and zero rate policies have on the markets. The Fed has indicated it will maintain a zero rate policy at least through 2023. Nano-yields force investors into riskier segments of the investment spectrum. Markets are further distorted by massive government interventions to purchase assets and inject liquidity into the economy through loans, spending and grants. As a result, we are seeing the same asset price inflation as seen after the global financial crisis, but this time it is on steroids. Incredibly, while still in the throes of an epic health crisis, bubbles or manias have formed in stocks, corporate credit, bitcoin and residential housing. Margin debt and call options are at record levels. The greater fool theory is in full force, while another crash is a possibility.
  • Debt – A second risk is the huge debt load carried by governments and corporations. No one knows what the debt capacity limits are, but it is surely a finite number that might be crossed at any time. Also, anything that causes a surge in interest rates might make debt service an overwhelming liability.
  • New Administration – Expected policies of the incoming Biden Administration are a third risk. Campaign promises of tax increases on corporations and individuals, along with increased regulations on many parts of the economy are likely to hinder economic growth. Deficit spending, possibly in the trillions, will add to the debt load. More spending by government on favored industries, state and local governments and various federal programs will stimulate the economy, however, government spending is probably the least productive use of capital known to mankind.
  • Inflation – Inflation is another risk that may take many investors by surprise. We expect annual inflation to surge above 2% beginning in March when the 2020 pandemic recession becomes the new basis for year-over-year measures. Later in the year, warmer weather and the proliferation of vaccinations may usher in the new roaring twenties - a surge in demand and virtually unlimited spending made possible by the massive government sponsored liquidity sloshing around the financial system. Inflation may transform from a year-over-year aberration to a lasting problem.
  • Weakening U.S. Dollar – The DXY fell 6.8% in 2020. This weakness might morph into a longer bear market for the dollar in 2021 for several reasons. With the Fed’s zero-rate policy, the dollar no longer enjoys superior sovereign rates. In fact, real (inflation adjusted) treasury yields are now less than those on Japanese and German government bonds. As the economic recovery gains momentum, emerging economies with higher growth rates will attract capital from the U.S. Also, the fiscal position of the U.S. is likely to deteriorate further under the Biden Administration.

Tracing Gold’s Past

Gold has been in a bull market since December 2015 (Chart 1). The chart pattern of this market looks similar to the first five years of the 2001 to 2011 bull market (Chart 2). It will be interesting to see if the chart similarities continue. After 2006, the former bull market found catalysts in the 2008 Global Financial Crisis and the European Debt Crisis in 2010. The current bull market will certainly need further catalysts to realize similar gains. The risks we have outlined along with the dollar’s trend could provide such catalysts.

Gold’s Recent Bull Market Run (From 2015 To Present)

Gold's Recent Bull Market Run (From 2015 To Present)

Gold Following Its 2001 To 2011 Bull Market Trend?

Gold Following Its 2001 To 2011 Bull Market Trend?

Source: Bloomberg, VanEck. Data as of January 4, 2020.

Download Commentary PDF with Fund specific information and performance.

Watch our Gold Webinar Replay Now: Gold in 2021 - Can We Expect More Of The Same?

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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

All company, sector, and sub-industry weightings as of December 31, 2020 unless otherwise noted. Source: VanEck, FactSet.

Nothing in this content should be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell shares of any investment in any jurisdiction where the offer or solicitation would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction, nor is it intended as investment, tax, financial, or legal advice. Investors should seek such professional advice for their particular situation and jurisdiction.

1NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold. 2MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver. 3The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) measures the value of the U.S. dollar relative to a basket of foreign currencies, often referred to as a basket of U.S. trade partners' currencies.

Any indices listed are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in a Fund. Certain indices may take into account withholding taxes. An index’s performance is not illustrative of a Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.

NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index is a service mark of ICE Data Indices, LLC or its affiliates (“ICE Data”) and has been licensed for use by VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) in connection with VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (the “Fund”). Neither the Trust nor the Fund is sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by ICE Data. ICE Data makes no representations or warranties regarding the Trust or the Fund or the ability of the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index to track general stock market performance.

ICE DATA MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH RESPECT TO THE NYSE ARCA GOLD MINERS INDEX OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN. IN NO EVENT SHALL ICE DATA HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS), EVEN IF NOTIFIED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (the “Index”) is the exclusive property of MarketVector Indexes GmbH (a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation), which has contracted with Solactive AG to maintain and calculate the Index. Solactive AG uses its best efforts to ensure that the Index is calculated correctly. Irrespective of its obligations towards MarketVector Indexes GmbH, Solactive AG has no obligation to point out errors in the Index to third parties. The VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF (the “Fund”) is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MarketVector Indexes GmbH and MarketVector Indexes GmbH makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing in the Fund.

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author, but not necessarily those of VanEck, and this opinion may change at any time and from time to time. Non-VanEck proprietary information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but not guaranteed. Not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Historical performance is not indicative of future results. Current data may differ from data quoted. Any graphs shown herein are for illustrative purposes only. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form, or referred to in any other publication, without express written permission of VanEck.

About VanEck International Investors Gold Fund: You can lose money by investing in the Fund. Any investment in the Fund should be part of an overall investment program, not a complete program. The Fund is subject to the risks associated with concentrating its assets in the gold industry, which can be significantly affected by international economic, monetary and political developments. The Fund’s overall portfolio may decline in value due to developments specific to the gold industry. The Fund’s investments in foreign securities involve risks related to adverse political and economic developments unique to a country or a region, currency fluctuations or controls, and the possibility of arbitrary action by foreign governments, or political, economic or social instability. The Fund is subject to risks associated with investments in Canadian issuers, commodities and commodity-linked derivatives, commodities and commodity-linked derivatives tax, gold-mining industry, derivatives, emerging market securities, foreign currency transactions, foreign securities, other investment companies, management, market, non-diversification, operational, regulatory, small- and medium-capitalization companies and subsidiary risks.

About VanEck Vectors® Gold Miners ETF (GDX®) and VanEck Vectors® Junior Gold Miners ETF (GDXJ®): An investment in the Funds may be subject to risks which include, among others, investing in gold and silver mining companies, Canadian issuers, foreign securities, foreign currency, depositary receipts, small- and medium-capitalization companies, equity securities, market, operational, index tracking, authorized participant concentration, no guarantee of active trading market, trading issues, passive management risk, fund shares trading, premium/discount risk and liquidity of fund shares, non-diversified and concentration risks, all of which may adversely affect the Funds. Foreign investments are subject to risks, which include changes in economic and political conditions, foreign currency fluctuations, changes in foreign regulations, and changes in currency exchange rates which may negatively impact the Funds’ return. Small- and medium-capitalization companies may be subject to elevated risks. The Funds’ assets may be concentrated in a particular sector and may be subject to more risk than investments in a diverse group of sectors.

Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss.

Please call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com for performance information current to the most recent month end and for a free prospectus and summary prospectus. An investor should consider a Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this as well as other information. Please read them carefully before investing.

© 2021 VanEck

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

All company, sector, and sub-industry weightings as of December 31, 2020 unless otherwise noted. Source: VanEck, FactSet.

Nothing in this content should be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell shares of any investment in any jurisdiction where the offer or solicitation would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction, nor is it intended as investment, tax, financial, or legal advice. Investors should seek such professional advice for their particular situation and jurisdiction.

1NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (GDMNTR) is a modified market capitalization-weighted index comprised of publicly traded companies involved primarily in the mining for gold. 2MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (MVGDXJTR) is a rules-based, modified market capitalization-weighted, float-adjusted index comprised of a global universe of publicly traded small- and medium-capitalization companies that generate at least 50% of their revenues from gold and/or silver mining, hold real property that has the potential to produce at least 50% of the company’s revenue from gold or silver mining when developed, or primarily invest in gold or silver. 3The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) measures the value of the U.S. dollar relative to a basket of foreign currencies, often referred to as a basket of U.S. trade partners' currencies.

Any indices listed are unmanaged indices and include the reinvestment of all dividends, but do not reflect the payment of transaction costs, advisory fees or expenses that are associated with an investment in a Fund. Certain indices may take into account withholding taxes. An index’s performance is not illustrative of a Fund’s performance. Indices are not securities in which investments can be made.

NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index is a service mark of ICE Data Indices, LLC or its affiliates (“ICE Data”) and has been licensed for use by VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) in connection with VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (the “Fund”). Neither the Trust nor the Fund is sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by ICE Data. ICE Data makes no representations or warranties regarding the Trust or the Fund or the ability of the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index to track general stock market performance.

ICE DATA MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH RESPECT TO THE NYSE ARCA GOLD MINERS INDEX OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN. IN NO EVENT SHALL ICE DATA HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS), EVEN IF NOTIFIED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index (the “Index”) is the exclusive property of MarketVector Indexes GmbH (a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation), which has contracted with Solactive AG to maintain and calculate the Index. Solactive AG uses its best efforts to ensure that the Index is calculated correctly. Irrespective of its obligations towards MarketVector Indexes GmbH, Solactive AG has no obligation to point out errors in the Index to third parties. The VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF (the “Fund”) is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MarketVector Indexes GmbH and MarketVector Indexes GmbH makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing in the Fund.

Please note that the information herein represents the opinion of the author, but not necessarily those of VanEck, and this opinion may change at any time and from time to time. Non-VanEck proprietary information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but not guaranteed. Not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Historical performance is not indicative of future results. Current data may differ from data quoted. Any graphs shown herein are for illustrative purposes only. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form, or referred to in any other publication, without express written permission of VanEck.

About VanEck International Investors Gold Fund: You can lose money by investing in the Fund. Any investment in the Fund should be part of an overall investment program, not a complete program. The Fund is subject to the risks associated with concentrating its assets in the gold industry, which can be significantly affected by international economic, monetary and political developments. The Fund’s overall portfolio may decline in value due to developments specific to the gold industry. The Fund’s investments in foreign securities involve risks related to adverse political and economic developments unique to a country or a region, currency fluctuations or controls, and the possibility of arbitrary action by foreign governments, or political, economic or social instability. The Fund is subject to risks associated with investments in Canadian issuers, commodities and commodity-linked derivatives, commodities and commodity-linked derivatives tax, gold-mining industry, derivatives, emerging market securities, foreign currency transactions, foreign securities, other investment companies, management, market, non-diversification, operational, regulatory, small- and medium-capitalization companies and subsidiary risks.

About VanEck Vectors® Gold Miners ETF (GDX®) and VanEck Vectors® Junior Gold Miners ETF (GDXJ®): An investment in the Funds may be subject to risks which include, among others, investing in gold and silver mining companies, Canadian issuers, foreign securities, foreign currency, depositary receipts, small- and medium-capitalization companies, equity securities, market, operational, index tracking, authorized participant concentration, no guarantee of active trading market, trading issues, passive management risk, fund shares trading, premium/discount risk and liquidity of fund shares, non-diversified and concentration risks, all of which may adversely affect the Funds. Foreign investments are subject to risks, which include changes in economic and political conditions, foreign currency fluctuations, changes in foreign regulations, and changes in currency exchange rates which may negatively impact the Funds’ return. Small- and medium-capitalization companies may be subject to elevated risks. The Funds’ assets may be concentrated in a particular sector and may be subject to more risk than investments in a diverse group of sectors.

Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss.

Please call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com for performance information current to the most recent month end and for a free prospectus and summary prospectus. An investor should consider a Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this as well as other information. Please read them carefully before investing.

© 2021 VanEck