How gold can prevent wars

Many commentators see gold as a barbarous relic, and the gold standard as a monetary straitjacket. But that's precisely it's appeal, says Chris Mayer in the Daily Reckoning. When money has to be backed by gold, it forces governments to think twice before lavishing money on expensive public works and 'world-improving' wars.

The gold standard: the cause of the Great Depression?

Despite gold rising to over $530 at the end of last week, there is a lot of dumb stuff written about the gold standard and the Great Depression these days. I opened the paper the other day and I read a column by Robert Samuelson in The Washington Post, entitled 'Gold's Enduring Mystery'.

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MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.