Portfolios heavy on precious metals outperformed peers in the FT's annual stockpicking competition, which mirrored last year's volatile market. Investors who bet on gold and silver assets navigated the turbulence better than those focused on equities or bonds, according to results released by the Financial Times.

The competition, a benchmark for professional money managers, reflects how safe-haven assets can provide stability during economic uncertainty. With inflation concerns and geopolitical tensions, metals have served as a hedge, a strategy that paid off for the top performers in this high-stakes contest.

Winners' success underscores the importance of diversification in unpredictable markets. Looking ahead, portfolio managers will likely reassess their allocations, with precious metals remaining a key tool for risk management. The FT's results offer a clear snapshot of effective investment strategy in a challenging year.