GDX and SIL Offer Materials Exposure, But Differ In Fees, Yields, and Performance

Core Insights - The Global X Silver Miners ETF (SIL) and the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) both focus on mining equities but differ significantly in their investment strategies and performance metrics [1][6] Cost & Size Comparison - GDX has a lower expense ratio of 0.51% compared to SIL's 0.65%, making it more cost-effective for investors [2] - As of November 14, 2025, GDX has a larger AUM of $22.21 billion, while SIL's AUM stands at $3.73 billion [2] - SIL offers a higher dividend yield of 1.17% compared to GDX's 0.53%, appealing to income-focused investors [2][7] Performance & Risk Analysis - Over the past year, GDX has outperformed SIL with a return of 114.6% versus SIL's 97.5% [2] - In terms of five-year performance, GDX has shown a growth of $2,007 from an initial investment of $1,000, while SIL has grown to $1,550 [3][8] - GDX has a smaller max drawdown of -49.79% compared to SIL's -56.79%, indicating lower price volatility [3][8] Portfolio Composition - GDX exclusively targets gold mining companies, holding 53 positions with top holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd, Newmont Corp, and Barrick Mining Corp [4] - SIL focuses on silver miners with 40 stocks, including top holdings like Wheaton Precious, Pan American Silver Corp, and Coeur Mining Inc [5] - The differing commodity focus introduces unique risk factors and drivers for each fund [5][6]