SynopsisFor best portfolio results, experts recommend diversification without being swayed by any one asset class. While asset allocation is the way to go, investors have their own strategies and the question remains: Which is the best combination? In this week’s TrendMap, we compare seven asset combinations. The portfolios with gold have delivered a notable return boost in recent years, while those with zero gold exposure have persistently lagged. By Sameer Bhardwaj.Getty ImagesThe balanced portfolio, with an equal allocation to equity, debt and gold, tops the 2026 rankings, highlighting the benefits of diversification across assets with a low correlation. Gold has been a key driver of outperformance.Balanced strategies have an edge in the long runWith equity markets facing significant headwinds in 2026, portfolios with an aggressive equity allocation have emerged as the biggest laggards. In contrast, those with a meaningful exposure to gold and fixed income have provided stability, preserving capital and generating positive returns.The balanced portfolio, with an equal allocation to equity, debt and gold, tops the 2026 rankings, highlighting the benefits of diversification across assets with a low correlation. Gold has been a key driver of outperformance, with portfolios having a larger allocation occupying top positions. It reinforces gold’s role as a hedge against market uncertainty and as a source of portfolio resilience during high volatility.