The iShares Silver Trust (SLV) and Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF (AAAU) offer direct exposure to precious metals, with SLV tracking silver and AAAU tracking gold. While AAAU has a lower expense ratio at 0.18% compared to SLV’s 0.50%, SLV has nearly doubled AAAU’s return in the last 12 months. SLV has a higher max drawdown over 5 years at 37.65% compared to AAAU’s 20.94%. Both funds provide direct exposure to their respective metals, with SLV holding 100% silver bullion in London and AAAU holding 100% gold bars in the U.K.

In 2025, the precious metals market saw a significant increase, with gold and silver prices surging. Gold, in particular, is viewed as a hedge against the U.S. dollar during economic and geopolitical uncertainties. While both metals have seen substantial returns, investors should be cautious of the volatility associated with precious metals. Silver, in particular, is twice as volatile as gold, as seen when its price dropped 27% in one day on Jan. 30. Overall, both AAAU and SLV offer exposure to the precious metals market for investors.

Read more at Nasdaq: AAAU & SLV: Two Precious Metal ETFs That Can Add Some Shine to Your Portfolio