Silver and Gold are On the Rise. Should Precious Metals ETF Investors Pick GDX or SIL?

Core Insights - The article compares two mining ETFs: Global X - Silver Miners ETF (SIL) and VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX), highlighting their differences in expense ratios, portfolio breadth, and risk profiles for investors seeking precious metals exposure [2][8]. Expense Ratios and Performance - GDX has a lower expense ratio of 0.51% compared to SIL's 0.65%, making it more cost-effective for investors [3] - Both ETFs have shown a 1-year return of 151% as of December 16, 2025, indicating strong performance in the precious metals sector [3] - GDX offers a lower dividend yield of 0.5% versus SIL's 1.08%, which may attract income-focused investors [3] Portfolio Composition - GDX provides exposure to 56 gold mining companies, primarily large-cap, with significant holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd, Newmont Corp, and Barrick Mining Corp, reflecting a diversified approach [5] - SIL focuses exclusively on silver miners, holding 39 stocks, with top positions in Wheaton Precious, Pan American Silver Corp, and Coeur Mining Inc, appealing to those seeking direct silver exposure [6] Market Context - Precious metals investing is seen as a hedge against inflation and a means of portfolio diversification, with silver prices recently reaching an all-time high and gold steadily rising [9] - Silver is noted for its higher volatility compared to gold due to its dual role as an industrial metal and a store of value, while gold is primarily viewed as a safe haven during economic or political instability [10] Risk Considerations - Both ETFs are focused on mining companies, which carry specific operational risks that can affect stock performance independently of the precious metals they mine [11]