Gold mining stocks are shares in companies that extract gold from the earth. Investors buy these stocks to gain exposure to the gold market without directly purchasing physical gold. The value of these stocks can fluctuate based on gold prices, production costs, and the overall performance of the mining company. Investing in gold mining stocks can be seen as a way to hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty, as gold often retains its value during tough times. However, these stocks also carry risks, including operational challenges and market volatility, which can affect their performance.