It is important to note here that gold futures contracts provide a hedge or barrier, against price fluctuations and provide an opportunity to profit on speculation. Businesses involved in the import, export, production or trading of gold can use gold futures contracts to hedge against this risk and offset potential losses in the short term. Ordinary investors can also make profits using tick movements. Although most people use gold futures as a means of short-term hedging. Investors looking to capitalize on future gold price increases can set their contracts for a longer term of up to one year.