IAU and GLD are the two best-known gold ETFs. Both hold physical gold in vaults and aim to follow its price, and neither pays any dividend or interest. The choice comes down to issuer, structure and cost.
IAU vs GLD: Which Gold ETF?
IAU and GLD both hold physical gold and pay no income. Compare the issuers, launch dates and what to check on cost before choosing.
At a glance
iShares Gold Trust
IAU
|
SPDR Gold Shares
GLD
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Exchange | NYSE Arca | NYSE Arca |
| Issuer | BlackRock (iShares) | State Street (World Gold Trust) |
| Category | Physical gold | Physical gold |
| Tracks | Price of gold bullion | Price of gold bullion |
| Launched | 2005 | 2004 |
| Regular dividend | No regular dividend | No regular dividend |
| Full profile | Read the profile → | Read the profile → |
Price chart
Live data by TradingViewKey differences
Issuer
IAU is from BlackRock's iShares. GLD is from State Street Global Advisors.
Launch
GLD launched in 2004 and IAU in 2005.
Share price
The two have different share prices because each share represents a different fraction of an ounce.
Cost
Fees differ between gold funds, and over a long period they add up. Compare each fund's current expense ratio.
In common
Both are backed by physical gold, both pay no income, and both follow gold's price swings.
What to check before choosing
- What are the current expense ratios of each fund?
- How do the funds compare for trading costs at your broker?
- What role do you want gold to play, given that it pays no income?
This is general education, not a recommendation. Fees, yields and prices change, so check current figures with the issuer or your broker.
Frequently asked questions
Is IAU or GLD better?
They are very similar. The main differences are the issuer, the share price and the fee, so compare current costs.
Do gold ETFs pay dividends?
No. Gold produces no income, so the only gain is a higher gold price.
Can I own both?
There is no need. You would just own gold twice.
Investment Disclaimer
All information and tools on this website are provided for informational purposes only. The calculations, examples, and projections are simplified estimates and may not reflect real-world investment results.
Nothing on this website should be interpreted as financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and any outcomes resulting from them.
Past performance and projected returns do not guarantee future results. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.