Stocks represent value within the fabric of the U.S. financial system, whereas the value of gold and Bitcoin doesn't depend on the day-to-day functioning of global economic systems.In the U.S., stock ownership is common, accessible, and an integral aspect of compensation packages and retirement planning.The S&P 500 has increased in value over time because corporate earnings have risen. Public ownership in corporations is a key element of the global financial system, but is especially important in the U.S.So ...