Gold has always been a popular investment choice for individuals and institutions looking to diversify their portfolios and hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. One way to gain exposure to gold is through Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), which track the price of gold and are traded on stock exchanges just like any other stock. In 2024, there are several Gold ETFs that stand out in terms of size and popularity. Let’s take a closer look at the five biggest Gold ETFs in 2024:
1. SPDR Gold Shares (GLD): SPDR Gold Shares is the largest and most popular Gold ETF, with assets under management exceeding $60 billion. GLD was launched in 2004 and is traded on the New York Stock Exchange. It is known for its high liquidity and tight bid-ask spreads, making it an attractive choice for investors looking to trade gold ETFs.
2. iShares Gold Trust (IAU): iShares Gold Trust is another leading Gold ETF with assets under management of over $20 billion. IAU was established in 2005 and is traded on the NYSE Arca. One of the key features of IAU is its relatively low expense ratio, making it a cost-effective option for investors seeking exposure to gold.
3. Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares ETF (SGOL): Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares ETF is a top Gold ETF with assets under management surpassing $8 billion. SGOL was launched in 2009 and is traded on the NYSE Arca. This ETF is unique in that it holds physical gold bars in secure vaults, offering investors direct exposure to the metal.
4. GraniteShares Gold Trust (BAR): GraniteShares Gold Trust is a rapidly growing Gold ETF with assets under management exceeding $5 billion. BAR was established in 2017 and is traded on the NYSE Arca. This ETF is known for its innovative approach to gold investing, offering investors low-cost exposure to the metal.
5. VanEck Merk Gold Trust (OUNZ): VanEck Merk Gold Trust is a prominent Gold ETF with assets under management of over $3 billion. OUNZ was launched in 2014 and is traded on the NYSE Arca. One of the standout features of OUNZ is its ability to convert shares into physical gold coins or bars, providing investors with the option to take delivery of the metal.
In conclusion, Gold ETFs play a crucial role in helping investors gain exposure to gold as an asset class. The five biggest Gold ETFs in 2024, including SPDR Gold Shares, iShares Gold Trust, Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares ETF, GraniteShares Gold Trust, and VanEck Merk Gold Trust, are popular choices among investors seeking to benefit from the potential upside of gold prices while mitigating risks associated with investing in physical gold. As always, it’s important for investors to conduct thorough research and consult with financial advisors before making any investment decisions.