Gold mining stocks are shares in companies that explore, extract, and produce gold. 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, company performance, and overall market conditions. Investing in gold mining stocks can be seen as a way to hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty. However, it also carries risks, as mining operations can be affected by factors like operational costs, regulatory changes, and geopolitical issues in regions where the mines are located, such as South Africa or Canada.