"Stock" is the word used to describe the sum of an asset held by investors. Google "stock to flow" to see how "stock" is commonly used for assets in general and

"Stock" is the word used to describe the sum of an asset held by investors. Google "stock to flow" to see how "stock" is commonly used for assets in general and commodities like gold in particular. You will also find the answers to your questions about whether to count gold below ground.