IAU vs LQD
iShares Gold Trust vs iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF
Last updated: 2026-04-02
iShares Gold Trust (IAU) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to gold securities. It charges a moderate expense ratio of 0.25%. Launched in 2005, the fund has a 21-year track record.
iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF (LQD) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to investment-grade U.S. corporate bonds. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.14%. The fund offers a high dividend yield of 4.53%. Launched in 2002, the fund has a 24-year track record.
Quick Verdict
LQD is significantly cheaper at 0.14% vs 0.25% expense ratio, saving you approximately $216 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. Over the past year, IAU has significantly outperformed with a 52.4% return vs 0.0%. Income investors may prefer LQD for its higher yield (4.5% 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 LQD if...
you want the lowest fees and plan to buy and hold long-term. Over decades, the expense ratio difference compounds significantly.
Choose IAU if...
recent performance momentum matters to your strategy. Note that past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Choose LQD if...
you prioritize dividend income and want higher regular distributions from your portfolio.