GLD vs SGOV
SPDR Gold Shares vs iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF
Last updated: 2026-04-02
SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) is an exchange-traded fund issued by State Street that provides exposure to gold securities. It charges an above-average expense ratio of 0.40%. Launched in 2004, the fund has a 22-year track record.
iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF (SGOV) is an exchange-traded fund that provides exposure to short-duration U.S. Treasury bonds with low interest rate risk. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.09%. The fund offers a high dividend yield of 4.01%. Launched in 2020, the fund has a 6-year track record.
Quick Verdict
SGOV is significantly cheaper at 0.09% vs 0.40% expense ratio, saving you approximately $607 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. Over the past year, GLD has significantly outperformed with a 52.3% return vs 0.0%. Income investors may prefer SGOV for its higher yield (4.0% vs 0.0%).
Key Metrics
Performance Chart
Indexed to 100 at start (5-year comparison)
Performance Comparison
Fee Impact Over Time
Estimated fee cost difference assuming 8% annual returns
Risk Metrics
Based on 5 years of daily returns
Dividend Comparison
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose SGOV if...
you want the lowest fees and plan to buy and hold long-term. Over decades, the expense ratio difference compounds significantly.
Choose GLD if...
recent performance momentum matters to your strategy. Note that past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Choose SGOV if...
you prioritize dividend income and want higher regular distributions from your portfolio.