Metals

I've read every argument out there about the need to hold physical metals . . . in your pocket, not at the bank. I don't disagree with the arguments, but the bottom line is, every form of investment and way of holding it brings risks. As a practical matter, I fear burglary more than I fear the federal government seizure of my safe deposit box, so I keep my metals there. Trust me, I know I might regret it, but I weigh the different unlikely risks, and I've come down in favor of taking the institutional risk.

Maybe I'm a socialist at heart: I trust the government to do the right thing. Not really, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm more comfortable with the bank than my house right now.