Core Insights - The MicroSectors Gold Miners 3X Leveraged ETF (GDXU) has surged over 470% year-to-date, making it one of the top-performing ETFs in 2025, driven by record gold prices which have increased more than 41% this year [1][5] - GDXU offers triple-leveraged exposure to the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index, amplifying returns significantly compared to traditional bullion-backed funds [1][5] - Other gold-related ETFs, such as the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) and Sprott Gold Miners ETF (SGDM), have also performed well, with GDX up around 105% year-to-date and SGDM reaching a 52-week high, increasing over 120% from its lows [4] Trends Driving Performance - Increased inflows into gold-related ETFs, particularly leveraged products like GDXU, have been noted as a trend among momentum-hunting traders [3] - The sector is experiencing a resurgence, with non-U.S. central banks accumulating gold at the fastest rate in nearly five decades, diversifying away from U.S. Treasuries [7] - Rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainty over tariffs have heightened safe-haven demand for gold, further supporting its price [7]