The Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF (AAAU) and SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) are both physical gold ETFs tracking gold’s price. AAAU has a lower expense ratio of 0.18% compared to GLD’s 0.40%. Both funds have no dividend or yield. GLD is larger with $134.0 billion in AUM, while AAAU has $2.2 billion. The funds hold physical gold bars and mirror gold’s spot price. Gold prices have risen over 50% in 2025 due to geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, making gold a popular hedge. Investors can choose between physical gold, gold stocks, or gold ETFs for exposure.

SPDR Gold Shares is the largest and most liquid gold ETF in the U.S., launched in 2004 with $134.0 billion AUM. Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF, launched in 2018, has lower costs with an expense ratio of 0.18%. For every $1,000 invested, AAAU costs $1.80 annually versus $4 for GLD. Investors can gain exposure to gold through ETFs, which can hold physical gold or gold stocks. Gold prices have surged in 2025, driven by global events and central bank actions. Gold ETFs provide a straightforward way to invest in gold without owning physical bullion.

Read more at Nasdaq, Inc.: Gold ETFs: SPDR Gold Shares Offers Scale While AAAU Is More Affordable