Bridgewater Founder Ray Dalio’s Family Office Reveals U.S. Stock Investment Strategy for the First Time Since the Pandemic
According to 13F filings, the firm’s US stock investments totaled $503 million at the end of last year, a significant increase from early 2021. The latest data shows that its portfolio is highly concentrated in gold ETFs, with diversified holdings in US equities, US bonds, and global equities. Additionally, the family office is actively expanding its presence in the Middle East and Asia and continues to promote large-scale philanthropic initiatives.
Ray Dalio Holds Large Positions in Gold and US Stocks and Bonds
Bloomberg reports that Dalio’s family office allocates over three-quarters of its US stock investments into gold index ETFs, while also holding smaller positions in US Treasuries and the S&P 500. In the current macroeconomic environment characterized by inflationary pressures, gold is viewed as a traditional safe-haven asset. Compared to previous holdings of just two gold ETFs, the current asset allocation has expanded to nearly a dozen, indicating a highly defensive strategy focused on preserving wealth amid global economic uncertainties.
Recently, Ray Dalio has issued multiple warnings, stating that with the Trump administration adopting more aggressive trade protectionism and sanctions, “Capital Wars” could become the next major conflict after trade wars. Dalio analyzes that as trade deficits and trade tensions escalate, capital flows will be affected, leading foreign holders to lose confidence in dollar assets. He emphasizes that gold remains an important hedge during times of financial stress.
(Dalio warns of Capital Wars: Trump policies may trigger a sell-off of dollar assets, highlighting gold as a safe haven)
Family Office Team and Diversified Market Strategy
After fully exiting Bridgewater Associates, Dalio personally leads the family office’s investment decisions and has recruited former Bridgewater veterans and other professionals to form a global macro strategy team. Its portfolio includes ETFs from both developed and emerging markets, reflecting a continuation of the “All Weather Strategy” aimed at maintaining stable returns across various economic environments. Through cross-regional and cross-asset diversification, the firm seeks to mitigate risks associated with individual markets. This approach not only reduces dependence on any single economy but also demonstrates a professional balance between capturing growth in emerging markets and managing risks in developed markets.
Global Expansion: Entering Middle Eastern and Asian Capital Hubs
In addition to asset allocation adjustments, Dalio’s family office is demonstrating its global ambitions through physical operational bases. Led by its CEO, the firm recently established a new branch in Abu Dhabi, signaling a strong focus on the Middle East’s capital potential and geopolitical significance. The firm is also actively recruiting investment, tax planning, and technology talent in the US and Singapore. This cross-border strategy enhances the family office’s ability to efficiently manage global capital flows and access regional investment opportunities.
Wealth Transfer and Social Impact: Over $7 Billion in Philanthropy
The family office’s core functions extend beyond asset growth to include wealth transfer and social responsibility. Dalio’s charitable foundation has donated over $7 billion since 2003, supporting various non-profit initiatives such as ocean exploration. By converting capital market profits into long-term funding for scientific research and environmental conservation, top-tier wealthy individuals are integrating social responsibility into their asset management and family legacy. This operational model exemplifies a modern family office combining professional investment with social giving.
This article, “Bridgewater Founder Dalio Family Holdings Exposure: Heavy Gold Positions as Defense Against Capital Wars,” was first published on Chain News ABMedia.