The term "gold stocks" refers to companies that are involved in mining, exploring for or producing gold. These companies can be found on various stock exchanges around the world and their performance is often closely tied to the price of gold itself. Investors may buy shares in these companies as a way to gain exposure to the price movements of gold without actually owning physical gold. The profitability of gold mining companies depends on factors such as the spot price of gold, production costs, and market conditions.