Looking for investing strategies in 2026? Don’t overlook exchange-traded funds (ETFs). With over 14,000 ETFs to choose from, you can find options for instant diversification at a low price. Three top-performing ETFs in the past year include SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD), Physical Platinum ETF (PPLT), and VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH), each up over 50%. GLD is backed by physical gold, PPLT invests in platinum, and SMH focuses on semiconductor companies like Nvidia. These ETFs offer diversity and potential growth for your portfolio. (Source: barchart.com)

The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) is a straightforward fund managed by State Street Global Advisors with $148.2 billion in assets. It holds physical gold to reflect gold bullion prices, making it a convenient way to invest in gold without the need for physical storage. Although it slightly underperforms gold prices due to an expense ratio of 0.4%, shares have increased by 67% in the past year. (Source: barchart.com)

Similar to GLD, the Abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF (PPLT) is managed by Aberdeen and holds physical platinum bullion. With $3.1 billion in assets and a 0.6% expense ratio, PPLT has seen shares rise by 138% in the past year. Investing in precious metals like platinum can provide stability in uncertain market conditions, making PPLT a valuable addition to your portfolio. (Source: barchart.com)

For exposure to the semiconductor industry, consider the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH), which tracks the MVIS US Listed Semiconductor 25 Index. With $40.2 billion in assets and a 0.35% expense ratio, SMH includes top companies like Nvidia and Taiwan Semiconductor. Semiconductors have been strong performers, and SMH has seen a 52% increase in shares over the past year. This ETF offers a balanced investment in the semiconductor sector. (Source: barchart.com)

Read more at Barchart: These Were Among the Best-Performing ETFs in 2025. Are They Still Buys for 2026?