Gold Investments

What Is a Gold ETF?

How a gold ETF differs from physical gold, and why the price can fall.

A gold exchange-traded fund is an investment product designed to provide exposure to gold prices and is traded on a stock exchange. It is not the same as holding physical gold, and you do not collect a coin or a chain from it.

Physical gold, a gold ETF, and a gold mutual fund differ in ownership, access, costs, and how you buy or sell. Jewellery often includes making charges. A fund has its own costs, which are described in the scheme documents. Do not treat those names as interchangeable, and do not treat digital gold as if it were a mutual fund.

Silver has its own price. A product that holds silver, or a mix of gold and silver, will not move in lockstep with gold. Read what the scheme actually holds.

Gold prices fluctuate. The value of a gold-linked investment can fall, and there are costs. A small starting amount does not remove that. Confirm which gold or silver product, if any, is actually offered before you act on a general explanation.

Keep in mind

  • A gold ETF tracks a price. It is not jewellery in your hand.

  • A gold fund, an ETF, and digital metal are different products.

  • The price of gold can fall after costs.