Buying gold requires no expertise except some basic knowledge about purity of gold. Buying equity or mutual fund or debt instruments is not so simple. One needs financial skills and expertise to read balance sheets, P&L and have working knowledge of P/E, P/B ratios, ROCE etc. It is not advisable for individuals to invest in equities and mutual funds without the help of a wealth advisor. Buying gold does not require any help from a wealth advisor. Gold is a great store of value and can be sold easily in time of need.