In the hypothetical situation that me and my wife are locked out of all my bank accounts (multiple in multiple countries) and that somehow my family and friends are unwilling/unable to assist I still have assets I can sell. But sure, if you're planning on/for becoming a fugitive from the law (lessay) then it might make sense to keep cash or something like gold. I'm really not planning or going to worry about that sort of low probability event. I have considered keeping gold but that's more because I like how shiny it is than any real concern.