r/stocks Mar 20, 02:55 PM
Which assets performance was the best during WW2 and could history repeat? During World War II, the best-performing assets were generally gold, jewelry, and specific industrial equities. Gold was the premier asset for preserving wealth and maintaining liquidity in occupied Europe. Equities, particularly US manufacturing and defense stocks, also thrived due to unprecedented wartime industrial production.
Key asset performance highlights included:
Gold and Jewelry: Acted as the ultimate "safe haven" and means of preserving wealth, often essential for survival in occupied Europe.
Stocks/Equities: U.S. large-cap stocks performed well, outperforming their long-term average returns (15.7% vs. 10% average) due to government spending and high corporate earnings.
Top Sectors: The printing, publishing, and alcoholic drinks sectors outperformed.
Commodities: Energy and agricultural commodities (oil and gas) performed well due to supply shortages.
Defense Manufacturing: Huge demand for military equipment (ships, tanks, aircraft) drove manufacturing sector growth.
submitted by /u/Guy_PCS
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