GLD VS IAU: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs
4 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

GLD VS IAU: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have revolutionized the investment world, offering diversified exposure across various sectors and asset classes. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison between two popular ETFs: GLD (SPDR Gold Trust) and IAU (iShares Gold Trust). We'll explore various aspects including the tickers, full names, issuers, sectors, top holdings, capitalization, strategy, tracking, and exposure.

GLD VS IAU: Overview

GLD and IAU are two ETFs that provide investors with exposure to the precious metal, gold. While both aim to track the price of gold, they have slight differences in terms of their issuer and investment objectives. These differences play a role in shaping the characteristics and performance of each ETF.

GLD VS IAU: Sectors and Top Holdings

The GLD ETF is focused on providing investors with exposure to physical gold. Its primary holding is gold bullion, which makes up a significant portion of the fund's assets. On the other hand, IAU also aims to track the price of gold, with its holdings consisting of gold bars held in a secure vault. Understanding the sectors and top holdings of these ETFs is crucial for investors seeking exposure to the precious metal.

GLD overlap GLD VS IAU: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFsGLD overlap GLD VS IAU: A Comprehensive Comparison of ETFs

GLD VS IAU: Capitalization and Strategy

Both GLD and IAU have substantial assets under management (AUM), reflecting the popularity of gold as an investment vehicle. Their strategies are centered around tracking the price of gold, providing investors with a way to gain exposure to the metal without owning physical gold. The capitalization and strategy of these ETFs contribute to their appeal for investors with varying risk profiles.

GLD VS IAU: Tracking and Exposure

GLD and IAU offer investors exposure to the price of gold by holding physical gold assets. The tracking mechanism involves monitoring the fluctuations in the price of gold and adjusting the ETF's holdings accordingly. This provides a direct way for investors to participate in gold price movements without owning the physical metal. Understanding the tracking and exposure methods helps investors evaluate the suitability of these ETFs for their portfolios.

Conclusion

GLD and IAU are distinct ETFs that cater to investors interested in gaining exposure to the price of gold. While their investment objectives are similar, their issuers, tickers, and slight differences in strategy can lead to varying outcomes. For those seeking in-depth insights into the holdings, correlations, overlaps, and other relevant details, ETF Insider offers a user-friendly app that provides extensive information on these and other financial instruments.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide any investment advisory services.

Sources:

GLD ETF issuer
GLD ETF official page

IAU quote and analysis

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