Oil and gas are two of the most traded commodities in the world, and their price movements can have significant implications for the global economy. Recently, there has been a noticeable divergence in the trend of these commodities with oil prices increasing while gas prices are trending downward. Oil prices have been on the rise due to a combination of factors. Firstly, there has been a recovery in demand as many economies around the world are opening up following the reduced impact of COVID-19. Further, production cuts by OPEC+ countries have contributed to reducing the supply of oil in the market, pushing up prices. Lastly, geopolitical tensions in key oil-producing regions have also added to the bullish momentum in oil prices. On the other hand, gas prices are experiencing a downtrend. A possible reason behind this could be an oversupply situation. Natural gas production has been on the increase in regions like the United States, resulting in a glut. Additionally, the demand for natural gas tends to be seasonal, with demand generally lower during mild weather conditions which have been prevalent recently. However, it is also essential to acknowledge that energy markets are quite volatile and unpredictable due to a myriad of factors affecting them including geopolitical issues, supply and demand dynamics, weather patterns, and policy regulations among others. Investors in these commodities thus need to keep a close eye on these factors and market trends. The diverging price trends of oil and gas provide interesting opportunities for investors depending on their risk-reward preferences.

Investing in physical gold can serve as a hedge against inflation, a part of a diversified investment portfolio, and a store of value during economic crises. Here is a guide on how to start investing in physical gold: 1. **Types of Physical Gold:** There are several forms in which you can invest in physical gold such as gold coins, bars, or bullion. Gold coins are available in different sizes, typically ranging from one-tenth of an ounce up to two ounces. Gold bars range in size as well, but are normally larger than coins and may require a higher initial investment. 2. **Research Dealers:** Before buying, ensure to research reputable gold dealers. Look for long-standing dealers with strong reviews and ratings to avoid scams. Certification from industry bodies, like the American Numismatic Association, can serve as an indicator of reliability. 3. **Check the Spot Price:** The spot price of gold (the current market price) fluctuates throughout the day. It’s important to track these prices before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. 4. **Understand the Premiums:** Dealers often charge premiums on top of the gold’s spot market price. This is their fee for processing, fabricating, and distributing the gold. Premiums vary upon size, brand, and quantity of gold being bought. 5. **Storage:** Once bought, the gold will need to be securely stored. Some people choose to store at home in a secure location, while others prefer bank vaults or private companies that specialize in precious metal storage. 6. **Insurance:** It’s crucial to insure your physical gold investment against potential risks like theft or damage. Some home insurance policies cover precious metals, but you might need to purchase additional coverage or consider a policy from a specialized insurance company. 7. **Selling Your Gold:** Just like buying, selling your gold requires some research to get the best price. Be aware of the current spot price so you have an idea of the value of your gold. Once you’re ready to sell, you can choose to sell it back to your dealer or a jeweler, at a gold party, through a pawnshop, or online. Remember, investing in physical gold should be seen as a long-term investment. The value of gold can fluctuate up and down, so it’s not a field for the faint-hearted. It can take years to