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Exploring the Return to the Gold Standard

Apr 29, 2025

Lecture Notes: Returning to the Gold Standard

Introduction

  • Discusses the potential return to the gold standard, emphasizing its difficulty but purported benefits.
  • Donald Trump advocates for a new monetary system based on gold.
  • There are plans for a "Marilago Accord" to address tariffs and establish a new monetary system.

Evidence and Predictions

  • Scott Bent's Statement: The US Treasury Secretary indicated a need for a new global monetary system, akin to a Bretton Woods agreement.
  • Gold as a Stable Asset: Gold is not a fiat currency and is viewed as a stable store of value.
  • Global Trends: Discussion on China and its purchasing of gold, suggesting a possible shift to a gold-based R&B.

Comparisons and Critiques

  • Bitcoin vs. Gold: Gold is positioned as both a risk-off and risk-on asset, unlike Bitcoin which is seen purely as a risk asset.
  • US Treasury's Stance: Implications that the world will not adopt a bitcoin-based system and may shift to a global gold standard.

Historical Context

  • Donald Trump's Views: Historically expressed support for the gold standard, seeing it as a solid foundation, despite recognizing the current lack of US gold reserves.
  • Fort Knox Gold: Concerns over whether the US has enough gold reserves; suggestions that recent inflows might be restocking US gold holdings.

Economic Shifts and Risks

  • Bridgewater Capital: Identifies current economic conditions as a once-in-a-generation shift, posing risks to US assets.
  • Ray Dalio’s Commentary: Predicts a breakdown in the monetary order, emphasizing the need for change.

International & Domestic Trade Dynamics

  • Triffin Dilemma: Challenges posed by the US dollar as a reserve currency, leading to trade deficits and manufacturing decline.
  • Gold Holdings Analysis: US holds significant gold but lacks the per capita advantage; China is a major buyer but ranks low per capita.

Gold Market Trends

  • Gold Flows: Recent shifts in gold flows favor the US, with large inflows from Swiss refineries.
  • Commodities Exchange: Preparing for significant changes, possibly related to global financial shifts.

Final Thoughts

  • Trump’s Motivation: Driven by a desire to win and correct trade/account deficits.
  • Potential Outcomes: A return to a gold standard could stabilize global economies, with a predicted gold price of $10,000/oz.
  • Economic Transition: Historical patterns show cyclical shifts leading to new monetary systems, currently anticipating another major transition.

Conclusion

  • The global economic landscape is on the brink of a transition, with gold playing a central role.
  • Individuals must prepare for changes that could significantly impact personal and national wealth.