iShares Gold Trust (IAU) ETF Analysis
The iShares Gold Trust (IAU) provides investors with direct exposure to the daily performance of gold bullion prices, managing a substantial $60.20 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2026. With a competitive expense ratio of 0.25%, this fund offers a cost-effective and liquid vehicle for accessing the commodity markets, specifically targeting physical gold. Established in 2005, IAU is designed for those seeking direct gold exposure within their portfolio for diversification or as a potential hedge.
iShares Gold Trust (IAU) ETF — Price, Holdings & Analysis
ETF Overview
Risk Metrics
Expense Ratio
Sector Allocation
- Real Estate: 100.0%
Dividend Yield
- ProShares - UltraShort Silver (ZSL) — 0.95% expense ratio
- iShares S&P GSCI Commodity-Indexed Trust (GSG) — 0.75% expense ratio
- ProShares - UltraShort Bloomberg Natural Gas (KOLD) — 0.95% expense ratio
- UBS AG ETRACS Crude Oil Shares Covered Call ETNs due April 24, 2037 (USOI) — 0.85% expense ratio
- iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (EFA) (Equity) — 0.32% expense ratio
- iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF (LQD) (Fixed Income) — 0.14% expense ratio
- iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (HYG) (Fixed Income) — 0.49% expense ratio
- iShares Russell Mid-Cap ETF (IWR) (Equity) — 0.18% expense ratio
- iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Small-Cap ETF (EEMS) (Equity) — 0.72% expense ratio
- iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) (Equity) — 0.15% expense ratio
Risk Metrics
- Beta: 0.16
Questions & Answers
What is iShares Gold Trust (IAU)?
iShares Gold Trust is an exchange traded fund launched and managed by iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC. The fund invests in the commodity markets. With $60.2B in assets under management, it is one of the larger funds in its category.
What is the expense ratio for IAU?
iShares Gold Trust has an expense ratio of 0.25%, which is considered low for commodities ETFs. This means for every $10,000 invested, annual fees would be approximately $25. Lower expense ratios generally lead to better long-term returns, all else being equal.
How long has IAU been around?
iShares Gold Trust was launched in 2005, making it 21 years old. As one of the longer-running ETFs, it has an extensive performance track record through multiple market cycles. It is managed by IShares.
What is the current NAV of IAU?
iShares Gold Trust has a net asset value (NAV) of approximately $75.73 per share. The NAV represents the per-share value of the fund's underlying assets minus liabilities. Market price may differ slightly from NAV due to supply and demand dynamics during trading hours.
Is IAU a good investment?
iShares Gold Trust is a commodities ETF with $60.2B in assets. Equity ETFs are subject to market risk and can experience significant short-term volatility, though they have historically provided strong long-term returns for patient investors. Whether it is suitable depends on your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance.