Final answer:
Owning gold serves as a way of preserving economic value that can be spent or consumed in the future.
Step-by-step explanation:
Owning gold serves as a way of preserving economic value that can be spent or consumed in the future in uncertain economic times. Gold is considered a safe-haven investment, meaning it retains its value or even increases in value during periods of economic instability. Unlike other assets, such as cars or credit cards, gold is not subject to depreciation or interest charges, making it a reliable option for preserving economic value.