Gold Comfortably Outperforms Market YTD: ETFs to Consider

Core Viewpoint - Gold has significantly outperformed the S&P 500, trading at over $4,000 per ounce with a year-to-date gain of 54%, compared to the S&P 500's 13% increase [1][2] Gold Market Performance - The strong performance of gold highlights its status as a safe-haven asset amid market volatility, high inflation, and macroeconomic risks [2][5] - Central banks and institutions are accumulating record amounts of gold, making gold ETFs an accessible option for investors [3][10] Factors Driving Gold's Outperformance - Geopolitical instability, rising U.S. national debt, and tariff uncertainties have led to increased diversification into gold by central banks and private investors [5][6] - The S&P 500 has faced challenges from high valuations and concerns over the sustainability of the tech sector, particularly the AI industry [6][7] Future Outlook for Gold - The outlook for gold remains strong, driven by structural demand factors, including continued purchases from central banks [8][9] - J.P. Morgan projects gold prices could reach $5,200-$5,300 by the end of 2026, indicating a potential 25% increase from current levels [9] Recommended Gold ETFs - SPDR Gold Shares (GLD): Approximately $136.33 billion in AUM, with a year-to-date gain of 54.6% and a NAV of $374.65 [13] - iShares Gold Trust (IAU): $63.21 billion in net assets, year-to-date gain of 54.9%, and a NAV of $76.49 [14] - iShares Gold Trust Micro (IAUM): $5.41 billion in net assets, year-to-date gain of 55.1%, and a NAV of $40.48 [15]