---
title: "Gold ETF IAU Down 0.51%, Platinum ETF PPLT Slides 4.30%"
canonical_url: https://www.stockexpertai.com/journal/2026-01-17/gold-etf-iau-down-051-platinum-etf-pplt-slides-430
last_updated: 2026-01-17T12:06:42.948Z
section: "Beginner Playbook"
author: "Alex Sterling"
publisher: Stock Expert AI
tickers: IAU, PPLT, BTC, ETH, SOL
content_type: journal-article
---

# Gold ETF IAU Down 0.51%, Platinum ETF PPLT Slides 4.30%

## The Take
- Commodity ETFs offer exposure to precious metals; consider your risk tolerance and investment goals before investing in IAU or PPLT.

_A look at two popular commodity ETFs, exploring their differences and recent performance._

Markets are signaling something important today. Let's take a quick look at two Exchange Traded Funds, or ETFs. ETFs are like baskets that hold a collection of investments, allowing you to buy into many assets at once. Today we will examine two ETFs focused on precious metals: the iShares Gold Trust (IAU) and the Aberdeen Standard Physical Platinum Shares ETF (PPLT).

IAU is designed to track the price of gold. Each share represents a fraction of an ounce of gold held in vaults. PPLT, on the other hand, tracks the price of platinum, another precious metal used in industry and jewelry. PPLT has a higher expense ratio and manages smaller assets than IAU. Today, IAU is down 0.51%, while PPLT has seen a steeper decline of 4.30%. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results.

These ETFs offer different risk and reward profiles. Gold is often seen as a safe haven during economic uncertainty, while platinum's price can be more volatile due to its industrial uses. Understanding the differences can help you make informed investment decisions.

## Related Tickers
- [IAU](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/iau)
- [PPLT](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/pplt)
- [BTC](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/btc)
- [ETH](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/eth)
- [SOL](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/sol)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between IAU and PPLT?
IAU tracks the price of gold, while PPLT tracks the price of platinum. Gold is often considered a safe haven, while platinum is more volatile due to its industrial uses. PPLT also has a higher expense ratio and manages fewer assets than IAU. Both ETFs offer investors exposure to precious metals through a single investment.

### Are gold and platinum ETFs a good investment?
Whether gold and platinum ETFs are a good investment depends on your individual investment goals and risk tolerance. Consider the current market conditions, your portfolio diversification strategy, and your long-term outlook. Research both IAU and PPLT, and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

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_AI-generated under human editorial supervision. Educational research, not financial advice._