What are GLDM and IAUM?

GLDM and IAUM are exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on gold. GLDM is a commodity-focused fund with a 0.10% expense ratio, while IAUM, also commodity-focused, has a 0.09% expense ratio. They are both managed by iShares and aim to provide investors with exposure to the gold market, though they track the commodity in slightly different ways.

How do expense ratios work for ETFs?

The expense ratio is the annual fee ETFs charge for operating expenses. GLDM has a 0.10% fee and IAUM has 0.09%. This means for every $1,000 invested, the annual cost for GLDM is $1, and for IAUM, it is $0.90. Over time, lower fees can lead to higher net returns for investors, assuming all other factors remain equal.

What are ETF holdings?

ETF holdings are the actual assets the fund owns, which can include stocks, bonds, or commodities like gold. In this comparison, specific top-10 holdings for GLDM and IAUM are not available. Generally, a fund with a more significant net asset value can support robust liquidity, meaning it is easier to buy and sell without affecting the price.

Which ETF offers lower costs, GLDM or IAUM?

IAUM offers a slightly lower expense ratio at 0.09% compared to GLDM’s 0.10%. This difference may seem small but can accumulate over time. When evaluating funds, consider both fees and net assets, as larger funds (like GLDM with $31.7 billion) might offer better liquidity than smaller funds (like IAUM with $8.1 billion).

How do the asset sizes of GLDM and IAUM differ?

GLDM has a substantial net asset value of $31.7 billion, while IAUM’s assets are significantly smaller at $8.1 billion. Larger funds often provide better liquidity and efficient trading. Smaller funds may still meet investor needs but can sometimes experience wider bid-ask spreads, affecting trading costs and convenience.

Which fund is better for diversification?

Both GLDM and IAUM provide exposure to the gold market, but the choice depends on specific investment goals. GLDM has a longer track record since its inception in June 2018, providing more data for assessment, while IAUM was launched in June 2021, offering a newer product. Both could suit portfolios seeking commodity diversification.

What is the current dividend yield for GLDM and IAUM?

Both GLDM and IAUM offer a dividend yield of 0.00%, meaning they do not distribute dividends. This is typical for commodity-focused ETFs that aim to track the value of the underlying asset rather than provide income through yield. Investors should note that returns come from changes in gold prices.

How do gold ETFs interact with the gold market?

Gold ETFs like GLDM and IAUM track the performance of the gold market. They allow investors to gain exposure to gold prices without holding physical gold. The movement of gold prices is influenced by economic conditions, currency fluctuations, and market demand, impacting the value of these ETFs.

What should beginners consider when choosing gold ETFs?

Beginners should consider fees, fund size, and track record. Both GLDM and IAUM have similar low fees, but GLDM’s larger asset base might offer better liquidity. Also, check the fund’s strategy, including how it tracks gold and if any underlying assets (like stocks) could impact performance.

What information is not available for GLDM and IAUM?

Neither GLDM nor IAUM currently provides details on their top holdings or sector weights, nor do they disclose their tracking methodologies. This limited transparency can make it harder for investors to assess how each fund operates. Consider this when evaluating potential risks and benefits.

What is the educational disclaimer for this comparison?

This comparison is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always conduct your research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions. Information in this comparison is current as of September 22, 2026, and may change over time.

How do the fund’s index methodologies differ?

For GLDM and IAUM, the index methodologies are not available. This means it is unclear how each fund constructs its portfolio to track the gold market. Investors should seek additional information on how each fund aims to replicate gold performance.

GLDM vs IAUM

Two funds, one decision: we compare cost, performance and what each ETF actually holds in September 2026.

Compare GLDM and IAUM, two gold-focused ETFs, by fees, holdings, dividends and tracking methods. GLDM has a 0.10% expense ratio and IAUM 0.09%. Note their different asset sizes and inception dates. Understand how each fund interacts with gold markets. Educational content, not financial advice.

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

GLDM

Metric

IAUM

0.10%

Expense Ratio

0.09%

0.00%

Dividend Yield

0.00%

$31.71B

Net Assets

$8.09B

Holdings

–

Jun 25, 2018

Inception Date

Jun 15, 2021

–

Index Tracked

–

Commodities Focused

Fund Category

Commodities Focused

IAUM costs about $1.00 less per year for every $10,000 invested.

Shared Top Holdings

These funds do not share any of their top holdings.

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Investment Analysis

GLDM

Pros

Low expense ratio of 0.10% per annum helps reduce ongoing cost drag for investors.
Substantial net assets of $31.7 billion support robust liquidity and efficient creation and redemption.
Inception on Jun 25 2018 provides a relatively long operational history for performance assessment.

Considerations

No dividend yield of 0.00% means investors receive no periodic income from the fund.
Index methodology is listed as not available which limits transparency on benchmark construction.
No top holdings or sector weights are reported so composition visibility is minimal.

IAUM

Pros

Expense ratio of 0.09% offers slightly lower annual costs compared to GLDM.
iShares issuer provides a reputable brand that may support investor confidence in oversight.
Commodities category signals direct exposure to gold markets for diversification purposes.

Considerations

Net assets of $8.1 billion are materially smaller than GLDM and may limit liquidity.
Inception date of Jun 15 2021 gives a shorter track record for evaluation.
Index methodology is not available reducing clarity on how the fund tracks its benchmark.

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About GLDM and IAUM

GLDM (GLDM)

IAUM (IAUM)

The iShares Gold Trust (IAUM) is an exchange-traded fund designed to offer investors exposure to the gold market. By holding undivided beneficial interests in gold bullion, the fund aims to reflect the performance of the spot price of gold, less the fund's expenses and liabilities. With a notably low expense ratio of 0.09%, it can be an accessible vehicle for those seeking to diversify portfolios with commodities. Investors should note that while gold is often viewed as a store of value and potential hedge against economic uncertainty, its price can be volatile and influenced by global monetary policies and market sentiment. IAUM does not distribute dividends, so returns depend solely on changes in the price of gold. As with any investment, values can fall as well as rise, and it is important to consider your own circumstances before investing.

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GLDM vs IAUM

Fund Snapshot