What Are the Best Assets to Hold or Invest in During a World War III Scenario?

As unpredictable as today’s world feels, the thought of preparing for a global conflict like World War III may seem unsettling, yet for some, it feels necessary. If the unimaginable were to happen, securing the right assets could make a difference, not just in preserving financial stability but in ensuring safety and survival. So, what could be the best assets to hold or invest in during a global crisis? Here’s a look at some options that offer resilience, flexibility, and even peace of mind during challenging times.

1. Precious Metals: Gold and Silver

Gold and silver have been trusted assets for centuries, holding their value during turbulent times. Unlike currency, which may lose value if economies destabilize, precious metals are tangible assets that people recognize and value worldwide. Having physical gold and silver on hand can provide a safety net, allowing you to retain wealth even if financial systems falter.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Gold and silver don’t rely on any bank or government’s stability, and they can be traded or used when other options are limited.

• Challenges: Storing metals safely can be tricky, and carrying large amounts around isn’t practical, so consider secure storage options.

2. Cash Reserves in Different Currencies

Keeping cash on hand is a simple but effective way to stay prepared. In times of crisis, liquidity – having readily available funds – is vital. Having cash in a few different stable currencies, like US Dollars, Euros, or Swiss Francs, can also help in case one currency loses value.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Cash allows for quick access to funds when needed, especially in emergencies.

• Challenges: Cash can lose value due to inflation over time, and during severe crises, governments might restrict access to bank accounts or impose limits on withdrawals.

3. Essential Commodities: Food, Fuel, and Water Rights

During a major conflict, essential commodities – food, fuel, and clean water – could become more valuable than money. Supplies like non-perishable foods, clean water, and fuel might become scarce, making them highly sought after. Some people invest in agricultural land or water rights, but even stocking up on personal supplies can make a big difference.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Commodities are tangible, essential, and useful. In a crisis, having supplies can offer peace of mind and even act as a form of currency if trading becomes necessary.

• Challenges: Storing these supplies takes space, and they can draw unwanted attention if resources become scarce.

4. Land and Real Estate, Especially Rural or Farmland

Rural or agricultural land offers a unique advantage in times of instability. Farmland provides the potential for self-sufficiency, offering a place to grow food and stay away from high-risk urban areas. Properties that are out of the way and in stable regions can be valuable refuges.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Land and property are tangible and can be useful for self-sufficiency, especially if you’re able to grow food.

• Challenges: Property ownership requires upkeep, and in certain situations, it might be difficult to reach or protect your land.

5. Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin and Similar Digital Assets

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are decentralized and don’t rely on any government or bank, making them appealing in times of financial crisis. In theory, Bitcoin could be used for transactions across borders even if traditional banking systems are down. However, this only works if internet and power infrastructure remain intact.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Cryptocurrency provides a way to store and transfer wealth securely, without relying on any one country or bank.

• Challenges: Crypto relies on internet access and power. In a major crisis, accessing your funds could be challenging if there are power outages or disruptions to the internet.

6. Basic Necessities: Food, Medicine, and Other Essential Supplies

Having a stockpile of essentials isn’t about investment but about survival and comfort. Things like non-perishable food, medicine, and other basic supplies can become incredibly valuable during severe disruptions. Stocking up on these items can give you peace of mind and the ability to ride out a crisis with less reliance on outside help.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Essentials provide direct security, not just for yourself but potentially for your community or loved ones if supplies are hard to come by.

• Challenges: These items have shelf lives, and finding secure storage may be a concern. Supplies might also attract attention if things become scarce.

7. Defense-Related Stocks

Although it may feel odd to invest in defense companies, industries involved in national security, weapons, and technology often see increased demand during global conflicts. Companies in this space may hold steady or even grow as governments ramp up defense spending.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Defense stocks can perform well in conflict-driven economies and may provide some portfolio stability.

• Challenges: Stock markets may become volatile or even shut down temporarily in times of extreme crisis. These assets work best as part of a balanced portfolio alongside more tangible options.

8. Bonds from Stable, Neutral Countries

Investing in government bonds from stable, neutral countries, like Switzerland, can be another layer of security. While global markets may fluctuate, bonds from politically stable nations tend to hold their value. This isn’t a solution on its own, but it can add stability to a diversified portfolio.

• Why It’s Worth Having: Bonds from neutral countries are usually safe, and they provide a modest return in relatively secure conditions.

• Challenges: Bonds aren’t highly liquid in a crisis, and if markets are disrupted, selling them could be difficult.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a worst-case scenario like World War III is unsettling, but having a plan in place can provide peace of mind. At the end of the day, a balanced approach combining a mix of tangible assets, like gold, land, and essentials, with financial diversification (cash, bonds, and defense stocks) might offer the best security. Remember, in any crisis, your safety and ability to access basic needs come first. Financial assets help, but having practical resources at hand can make a significant difference in how well you endure challenging times.

Thinking ahead may not prevent conflict, but it can make you more resilient to whatever comes your way.