<p>Most long-term studies put a diversifying gold allocation somewhere between 5% and 15% of a balanced portfolio. Below 5% the effect is negligible; above 15% you are making a concentrated call on one asset.</p><h2>A simple framework</h2><p>Decide your target band first (say 10%), then rebalance back to it once or twice a year. Selling gold after a strong run and buying after a weak one is uncomfortable — and it is exactly what rebalancing forces you to do.</p><p>Monthly savings plans automate the buying side of that discipline. Price alerts can prompt the selling side.</p><p><em>This article is general information, not personal financial advice. Gold can fall in value and past performance does not indicate future results.</em></p>