IAU vs SHY
iShares Gold Trust vs iShares 1-3 Year Treasury 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 1-3 Year Treasury Bond ETF (SHY) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to short-duration U.S. Treasury bonds with low interest rate risk. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.15%. The fund offers an attractive dividend yield of 3.76%. Launched in 2002, the fund has a 24-year track record.
Quick Verdict
SHY is significantly cheaper at 0.15% vs 0.25% expense ratio, saving you approximately $197 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. Over the past year, IAU has significantly outperformed with a 52.4% return vs -0.2%. Income investors may prefer SHY for its higher yield (3.8% 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 SHY 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 SHY if...
you prioritize dividend income and want higher regular distributions from your portfolio.