LONDON -- Gold prices have weakened slightly this week, with the December contract dropping by 1.2% over the last five trading days to $1,771.50 shortly after U.S. markets opened on Thursday.
Of course, the only practical way for most private investors to invest in gold is through exchange-traded funds. The $63 billion SPDR Gold Trust ETF has slipped 0.3% to $171.47 over the last five trading days, while the London-listed Gold Bullion ETF has declined 0.2% to $171.02 over the same period. Both funds are up around 12.5% so far this year.
Gold's star performers
Many investors prefer to invest in gold-mining stocks rather than gold itself, as investing in miners offers the potential for leveraged gains on the price of gold. Let's take a look at some of this summer's biggest risers.
Primero Mining
AuRico Gold
Another gold miner that has outperformed the market this year is Pan African Resources
Shares versus commodities
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Further investment opportunities: