Gold and silver delivered remarkable returns in 2025, with gold rising nearly 80 percent and silver surging around 150 percent. The factors that fueled this rally, such as geopolitical tensions and persistent inflation, are expected to remain strong in 2026, supporting the case for continued investment in precious metals. Silver's industrial demand, especially from the energy transition, adds to its appeal. However, experts caution against overexposure, recommending that gold and silver make up no more than a quarter of an investment portfolio. Diversified investment vehicles like exchange-traded funds and sovereign gold bonds are suggested for most investors, while physical gold retains its value for liquidity and emotional reasons. The emphasis for 2026 is on maintaining a balanced allocation to precious metals as a safeguard against uncertainty and inflation, rather than chasing past returns.