A new report from VanEck suggests that this could be an opportunity for investors to buy the dip. 

Gold is currently trading around US$4,600 per ounce, down approximately 22% from its all-time high of US$5,595 in late January.

While the drawdown is significant, in our view it is presenting a compelling entry point for investors looking to add gold exposure.

What's causing the dip?

VanEck CEO Jan van Eck addressed the recent pullback, highlighting that several forces have hit gold simultaneously. 

He outlined that these drivers appear cyclical and technical rather than structural. 

Firstly, gold had been trading well above its long-term averages, making a short-term correction unsurprising. 

VanEck reinforced this move below the 200-day moving average aligns with normal pullbacks often seen during longer-term bull markets, rather than indicating a lasting bearish shift.

Additionally, ongoing tensions involving the US and Iran, along with pressure on energy-related revenues, may have led some sovereign investors to sell gold holdings to raise immediate cash. 

This appears to reflect temporary funding stress rather than any fundamental decline in long-term interest in gold.

Why gold shares could be set for a rebound

Despite recent volatility, VanEck said the structural drivers of gold remain firmly in place and in some cases are strengthening.

While the immediate impact of the conflict has pressured gold, history shows that oil shock events ultimately drive higher inflation and macro uncertainty, conditions under which gold has historically performed strongly.

VanEck said during previous oil-shock conflicts, particularly the 1973 Yom Kippur War, the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the 1991 Gulf War, gold demand surged over the medium term as investors priced in higher inflation and persistent macro uncertainty.

The current conflict has disrupted roughly 20% of global seaborne oil supply, the largest such disruption in modern history.

Looking through the volatility, we think the current environment continues to support gold's role as a strategic portfolio allocation and reinforces the case for adding exposure at current levels.

How to invest in gold shares

The ASX is home to many gold mining and production shares. 

Two of the largest ASX listed gold shares include: 

• Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM)
• Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

There are also ASX ETFs that provide exposure to gold shares through a basket of miners, or tracking the spot price of gold: 

• Vaneck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX: NUGG)
• VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)
• Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD)

The post Should you buy the dip on gold shares? Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Since the war began, ASX 200 shares have fallen 7.8%.

Most sectors, particularly mining, have been negatively impacted, while energy shares have soared due to higher oil, gas, and coal prices.

Earlier this week, we looked at the 5 most traded ASX 200 shares since the war began.

The trading data came from online investment platform Stake and covered the period from 2 March to 18 March.

Only one of the top 5 most traded shares was an energy company.

That alone was interesting, given energy shares are clearly the momentum trade of the moment, with the sector up 16% since 2 March.

The data also indicated another interesting and surprising trend — investors' desire to buy the dip.

Several of the most traded ASX 200 shares had experienced major annual declines, and the war had dragged them even lower.

Examples include CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Wisetech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), and Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares.

This is a trend we've seen before among Aussie investors.

Last year, Stake trading data showed Aussies bought the dip during the April 2025 rout after the US announced its reciprocal tariffs.

10 most traded ETFs since the war began

In this article, we take a look at the 10 most traded ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the Stake platform since the war began.

This data is highly relevant given that so many Aussie investors are choosing ETFs over individual shares in today's market.

According to the latest market data, Aussies have a record $333 billion invested across 426 ETFs on the market today.

Here is the data from Stake. Remember, this data only shows volume of activity, so we don't know the split between purchases and sales.

However, we can assume that the fifth-ranked Betashares Crude Oil Index Currency Hedged Complex ETF (ASX: OOO) is buy-tilted.

ASX OOO has surged 47% in 30 days, and provides exposure to US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil futures (not the spot price).

We can also assume some profit-taking with ASX gold and silver ETFs, given the drop in gold and silver prices this month.

The gold price has fallen 18%, and silver has dropped 24% since the war in Iran began.

However, gold and silver remain 42% and 98% higher, respectively, over 12 months.

Source: Stake

The post Which ASX ETFs have Aussies traded most since the Iran war began? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

A new report from Global X has shed light on how investors may be able to position themselves should this come to fruition. 

According to the report, the RBA remains in a tightening posture as inflation pressures persist, including from geopolitical-driven energy shocks such as Middle East tensions. This reinforces the need for portfolios designed to remain resilient through a higher-for-longer rate regime.

Here are 5 ASX ETFs the provider believes could be worth considering. 

Global X Australian Bank ETF (ASX: BANK)

This fund invests in a diversified portfolio of Australian banking debt across the full capital structure. 

Global X said the portfolio of floating rate notes through both senior and subordinated credit and hybrid securities allows investors to benefit from rising income as rates increase, while still retaining a modest allocation to fixed-rate bonds that may provide upside should the rate cycle eventually reverse.

These securities have coupons that reset periodically in line with interest rates, meaning income rises as rates move higher. As a result, they can offer a more resilient income stream while experiencing less capital volatility compared to fixed-rate bonds.

Global X S&P/ASX 300 High Yield Plus ETF (ASX: ZYAU)

This fund invests in 50 high-dividend stocks from the S&P/ASX 200 Index.

Global X argues that with Australian dividend yields near multi-decade lows and the total amount of dividends decreasing over the last few years, relying solely on broad market income may no longer be sufficient. 

Instead, investors can consider a combination of high dividend equities and options-based strategies.

By focusing on companies with higher forecast dividend yields, investors may be able to capture an incremental yield premium of close to 1% relative to the broader benchmark, while still maintaining sector diversification and applying disciplined screening to avoid potential dividend traps.

Global X S&P/ASX 200 Covered Call Complex ETF (ASX: AYLD)

This fund uses a "covered call" or "buy-write" strategy in an effort to generate yield enhancement over and above dividends and franking. 

Global X believes this strategy could be successful during high interest rate environments or during periods of volatility. 

These strategies can generate additional income by selling call options over an equity portfolio. Importantly, option premiums are partially driven by the risk-free rate.

As rates rise, the cost of protection increases, which can lead to higher premiums for option sellers. Moreover, covered call strategies tend to outperform during sideways and downward markets. This creates an opportunity to enhance portfolio income while potentially dampening volatility.

Global X Bloomberg Commodity ETF (Synthetic) (ASX: BCOM)

This fund invests in a highly liquid, broad-based basket of commodities, including energy, grains, precious metals, industrial metals, softs and livestock.

Global X said materials and energy sectors tend to exhibit a positive relationship with inflation. 

Commodity producers also benefit from rising input prices, which can translate into stronger revenues.

For Australian investors, this is particularly relevant given the market's natural tilt toward resources. Examining previous rate hiking cycles, energy and materials have typically been standout performers relative to other sectors, reflecting their sensitivity to inflation dynamics and their ability to benefit from elevated commodity prices and supply-side constraints.

Etfs Metal Securities Australia – Etfs Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD)

This ASX ETF delivers investors a return mirroring the growth in the Australian dollar gold price, minus the annual management fee.

The provider pointed towards historical data that suggests during times of inflation, precious commodities such as gold have outperformed. 

The post 5 ASX ETFs to navigate rising interest rates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price rose to record highs, and along with it, many ASX gold shares. 

These companies also benefited from its position as a safe-haven asset.

Tariff fears, geopolitical uncertainty and global conflicts influenced investors decisions to push towards safe-haven assets like gold. 

Leading the way in 2025 were: 

• Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) rose 220%
• Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) shares climbed 206%
• Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) share price roared 196% 
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) shares increased 194%
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU), up 121%

Among the largest gold mining companies: 

• Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose by 73% in 2025.
• Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) shares climbed 164%
• Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares increased 152%.

What is happening in 2026?

According to Trading Economics, gold prices have climbed more than 16% year to date. 

Although the continuing conflict in the Middle East has influenced volatility.

Despite global gold prices rising, many of these red hot ASX gold shares have stumbled in 2026. 

Let's look how the best performing shares from last year are tracking so far in 2026. 

The only one in the positive at the time of writing is Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) which is up 12.9%. 

The other four: 

• Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) down 26% 
• Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) down 7.4%
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) down almost 15%
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) has fallen 7.4%

Among the largest gold mining companies, since the start of 2026, Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) is up 7% and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) is up 3%, while Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) is down 15%. 

What does this tell us?

There's more that influences gold miners and producers than just the global commodity price. 

Gold miners and producers are influenced not just by the global gold price but also by operational performance, including production costs, mine efficiency, and reserves. 

Exploration success and new discoveries can boost a miner's value, while project delays or cost overruns can hurt it. 

Regulatory, environmental, and political risks in mining jurisdictions can affect production and investor confidence. 

Finally, currency fluctuations, interest rates, and investor sentiment in equity markets also play a significant role in share price movements.

Global diversity with gold ASX ETFS

For investors looking to gain exposure to gold shares, without selecting specific companies, may benefit from more diverse gold ETFs. 

These funds can spread the risk across more than just Australian gold miners. 

Some options include: 

• Etfs Metal Securities Australia – Etfs Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD) – Tracks the price of physical gold with bullion held in London vaults.
• BetaShares Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: MNRS) – comprises the largest global gold mining companies (ex-Australia), hedged into Australian dollars.
• VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) – Provides exposure to a basket of global and Australian gold mining companies rather than the metal itself.

Alternatively, here are emerging ASX gold companies UBS has picked as winners. 

The post Which ASX gold shares have risen the most in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

These funds can provide diversification, exposure to resilient assets, and lower volatility during economic downturns.

Rather than trying to time market swings, defensive ASX ETFs aim to smooth returns. They do this by investing in assets that have historically held up better during crises, such as government bonds, gold, and high-quality global companies.

If I were building a more resilient portfolio today, these three ASX ETFs would be on my radar.

Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest ETF (ASX: VAF)

This Vanguard ASX ETF focuses on investment-grade Australian bonds, including government and high-quality corporate debt.

Bonds are often considered one of the most reliable defensive assets because they tend to perform better when economic growth slows and central banks cut interest rates. During equity market selloffs, investors frequently rotate into bonds for safety, which can support prices.

The fund tracks a broad bond index and includes securities issued by the Australian government as well as major financial institutions such as Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB).

The strength of this ASX ETF is stability. Income from interest payments can help cushion portfolios during equity downturns, and the diversification across many issuers reduces individual credit risk.

However, bond ETFs are not completely risk-free. Rising interest rates can push bond prices lower, which means returns may be weaker during periods of tightening monetary policy.

Global X Physical Gold ETF (ASX: GOLD)

The Global X Physical Gold ETF offers investors exposure to the price of physical gold stored in secure vaults.

Gold has long been viewed as a hedge during financial crises, inflation shocks, and currency volatility. When investors lose confidence in financial markets, demand for gold often increases.

That dynamic has helped the metal perform well during several major market disruptions, including the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 market crash.

Unlike equity ETFs, this ASX ETF doesn't hold corporate shares. Instead, it tracks the price of physical bullion. While gold mining giants such as Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Barrick Mining Corp (NYSE: B) are often influenced by the same underlying commodity trends, this ETF gives direct exposure to the metal itself.

The key strength here is diversification. Gold often moves differently from shares and bonds, which can help reduce overall portfolio volatility.

The main drawback is that gold does not generate income like dividends or interest, meaning long-term returns depend entirely on price appreciation.

VanEck MSCI World ex Australia Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)

The VanEck ASX ETF focuses on high-quality global companies with strong balance sheets, high returns on equity, and stable earnings.

Quality investing is a defensive strategy because companies with durable competitive advantages and consistent cash flow often perform better during economic slowdowns.

The ETF holds global leaders such as Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT), along with dozens of other financially strong multinational businesses.

One of the biggest advantages of this ASX ETF is exposure to resilient global franchises that dominate their industries. These types of businesses tend to maintain profitability even when economic conditions weaken.

The main risk is that the fund still invests in equities, meaning it can fall during broad market selloffs. However, quality stocks have historically been less volatile than the broader market over the long term.

The post 3 defensive ASX ETFs to battle through market turmoil appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has fallen 3.2% so far this week while the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) has fallen 1%. 

Yesterday was somewhat of a bloodbath for the ASX 200 which dropped 1.94%, marking for one of the worst single day drops in months. 

A new report from Global X has shed light on the sectors and subsequent ASX ETFs that investors have been flocking to amidst this heavy volatility.

Investors push further into safe-haven assets 

Gold shares have continued to be a top pick for investors, following on from last year's momentum.

Gold climbed 2% higher on Wednesday and now sits almost 78% higher than 12 months ago. 

Safe-haven assets typically maintain value even during economic uncertainty, so investors often flock to them when financial markets become volatile.

According to Global X, despite a two year rally for gold, the pace is not unprecedented. 

In 2024-26, we have observed a very constructive environment for gold, with significant geopolitical volatility, falling interest rates, a poorer economic outlook and an increasing narrative around de-dollarisation. 

The recent market volatility triggered by AI disruption in software, combined with the fresh risk of an energy shock and inflationary pressures stemming from US and Israel's attack on Iran, have added on top of that bullish environment new developments which look strikingly similar to the late 70s rally and may be the final tipping point that potentially triggers a gold supercycle in which there is sustained, strong outperformance.

Global X said in the short term, it believes markets are underpricing the risk of a dragged-out, sustained conflict in Iran, which could translate to persistently high energy prices that lead to stickier and hotter inflation and, in turn, complicate the rate path for the Federal Reserve and risk an economic downturn.

Defence and Energy also worth monitoring

Global X also reinforced that the world is increasingly operating in a Cold War framework, with sustained military modernisation across the US, Europe and parts of Asia. 

Spending is also shifting toward defence technology, including missile systems, drones, cyber and AI-enabled capability. That creates a multi-year tailwind that is less cyclical and more policy-driven than traditional industrial demand.

Additionally, energy sits at the centre of this escalation because the Middle East remains critical to global supply and Asia remains structurally dependent on Gulf flows.

It said structurally this reinforces the case for energy security, LNG infrastructure and diversified supply.

How do investors access these themes?

For investors looking for exposure to gold, some ASX ETFs to consider include: 

• Global X Physical Gold Structured (ASX:GOLD) – Mirrors the growth in the Australian dollar gold price. 
• BetaShares Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: MNRS) – Targets largest global gold mining companies (ex-Australia).
  
  

Energy focussed ASX ETFs to consider include: 

• The Global X Bloomberg Commodity Complex ETF (ASX: BCOM)
• BetaShares Global Energy Companies ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: FUEL)
  
  

For defence focussed ASX ETFs: 

• The Global X Defence Tech ETF (ASX: DTEC)
• Betashares Global Defence ETF – Beta Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)
• Vaneck Global Defence Etf (ASX: DFND). 

Foolish takeaway 

It's important to point out that despite investors pushing into these themes, there is no guarantee these sectors will rise as a direct result of current conflicts. 

Predicting how markets respond to global conflict is inherently uncertain, and short-term sector moves are often driven by sentiment as much as fundamentals. 

While capital may rotate into perceived "beneficiaries," there is no guarantee those trends will persist once conditions stabilise or new information emerges.

The post Which ASX ETFs are investors flocking to amidst volatility? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price is continuing its recovery from the recent commodities rout, trading near a one-week high of $5,048 per ounce.

The gold price ripped to a record US$5,608 per ounce on 27 January.

A major sell-off began two days later on news of a hawkish Fed chair nominee, which sparked profit-taking in the metals markets.

The gold price rose by 27% in 2024 and 65% last year.

In 2026 so far, the yellow metal is still up by an impressive 16.7% despite the sell-off.

What's next for the gold price?

The most ambitious prediction for the gold price this year comes from Julia Du of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC).

ICBC is a partially state-owned multinational bank and the largest in the world by total asset value at $6.6 trillion, according to S&P Global.

Du says the gold price could crack the US$7,000 per ounce mark this year.

I expect 2026 to be a year of heightened geopolitical risk and strong safe-haven demand, allowing gold to continue the volatile yet upward trend.

Central banks are likely to keep adding to reserves, institutional investors will increase portfolio allocations, and retail demand – especially in Latin America – should remain robust.

Combined with continued Fed rate cuts, these forces support a bullish bias.

Temporary easing of tensions could trigger price pullbacks, but strong buying interest should limit downside.

Du is the most optimistic among scores of experts whose forecasts feature in the 2026 LBMA Annual Precious Metals Forecast Survey.

She predicts a peak of US$7,150 per ounce in 2026 and a low of US$4,100 per ounce during brief corrections, like the one we just saw.

Du is not alone in seeing potential for the gold price to rise through US$7,000 per ounce.

UBS also sees potential for the gold price to ascend beyond US$7,000 per ounce under the right circumstances.

In a note, UBS strategists Wayne Gordon and Giovanni Staunovo say the gold price could trade as high as US$7,200 per ounce and as low as US$4,600 per ounce in 2026.

… we now project an upside scenario target of USD 7,200/oz and a downside scenario of USD 4,600/oz (this is close to a one standard deviation move).

A hawkish pivot by the Federal Reserve could heighten risks to the downside, while a steep escalation in geopolitical tensions could bring us closer to the upside scenario.

Gold continues to be rated as Attractive, and we maintain a long position in our global asset allocation.

3 drivers for the gold price in 2026

Du says the three primary drivers of the gold price this year start with continuing central bank purchases to counter geopolitical risks.

Although prices are high, these purchases are strategic and relatively insensitive to price fluctuations.

The second driver will be institutional allocations, with Du commenting:

Last year's sharp gold rally highlighted its growth potential beyond safe-haven status.

With U.S. equities facing possible downturns, institutions are likely to boost gold allocations in their portfolios.

The third driver will be demand for physical gold amid social unrest in some parts of the world.

Social instability drives consumers to seek physical gold, especially in regions with severe currency depreciation and escalating conflicts such as Latin America.

Similar trends are emerging globally as more consumers recognise gold's investment value.

Record amounts flowing into gold ETFs

Across the global markets, gold ETFs received a record net inflow of US$19 billion (A$27.3 billion) last month.

According to the World Gold Council, gold ETFs now have a record US$669 billion in assets under management (AUM).

ASX gold ETFs attracted a net inflow of US$202 million in January, bringing local AUM to US$8.6 billion.

In 2025, Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) was the highest returning ASX ETF holding overseas shares.

The MNRS ETF gave a total return, including dividends, of 149% last year.

The second-best performer was VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX), which returned 144%.

The market's largest physical gold ETF, Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD), returned 54% in 2025.

The post Could the gold price reach US$7,000 per ounce? This expert thinks so appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Silver is currently trading around US$82 per ounce after reaching a record US$121.64 last month. Gold is sitting near US$5,042 per ounce, down from its recent all-time high of about US$5,608.

Let's take a look at the difference below.

Why investors look to precious metals

Gold and silver tend to attract attention during periods of uncertainty. When confidence in shares, currencies, or the economy weakens, investors often look for assets that can hold value.

This pattern has repeated many times. During the Global Financial Crisis and again during COVID, gold in particular benefited as markets sold off and fear rose.

Historically, major market shocks tend to occur every 8 to 10 years, which keeps precious metals relevant even during calm periods.

Silver also benefits from this behaviour, but it has another major driver in industrial demand, which can amplify price swings.

Gold's role as a defensive asset

Gold is widely viewed as a store of value. Central banks hold it, governments trade it, and long-term investors use it as a hedge against financial stress.

Its price is influenced by interest rates, inflation, currency movements, and geopolitical risk. Importantly, gold demand does not rely heavily on economic growth. That gives it a more defensive profile during downturns.

While gold prices can still move sharply, those moves are usually more controlled than silver's. This makes gold easier to hold through volatile markets without needing to constantly react.

Silver's higher risk and higher swings

Silver sits in a more complicated position. It is both a precious metal and an industrial input. Large amounts of silver are used in electronics, solar panels, and manufacturing.

This dual role can drive strong rallies when economic growth looks healthy. It can also lead to sudden drops when growth expectations weaken, or speculative trading unwinds.

The recent price action highlights this risk. Silver surged to record highs and then fell hard in a short period. That volatility can suit traders, but it can be challenging for long-term investors seeking stability.

ASX options for everyday investors

Australian investors can access both metals through exchange-traded products.

The Global X Physical Gold Structured ETF (ASX: GOLD) is up about 9% so far this year, reflecting gold's strong run despite the recent pullback.

The Global X Physical Silver Structured ETF (ASX: ETPMAG) has gained around 6% this year, but with much larger swings along the way.

Both track the price of the underlying metal and remove the need to store physical bullion. Investors should also be aware that these products charge a small management fee, which is deducted over time.

Foolish Takeaway

Gold and silver can both play a role in a diversified portfolio, but they serve different purposes. Silver offers higher potential upside, but with larger price moves and greater risk. Gold offers more stable behaviour and a long history as a defensive asset.

If I had to choose just one metal to hold going into the end of this year, I would choose gold. It has generally held up better during market downturns, is less volatile than silver, and is more widely used as a form of protection when financial conditions deteriorate.

The post Gold vs silver. Here's where I'd put my money in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The inflows plus a 14% rise in the gold price pushed global gold ETF assets under management to a record US$669 billion.

That's a 20% increase on December.

Collective global holdings of the safe-haven asset rose by 120 tonnes to 4,145 tonnes, also a record high.

Asia invested a net $10 billion in gold ETFs in January, its strongest month ever, while the US invested $7 billion, its second-best month.

Europe invested a net $2 billion amid escalating geopolitical tensions over Greenland, which drove continued interest in gold ETFs.

Here in Australia, ASX gold ETFs attracted US$202 million in inflows, taking local AUM to US$8.6 billion.

What happened to the gold price in January?

The gold price reached a record US$5,608 per ounce during the month.

The commodities rout that started on 29 January put a three-day drag on gold's otherwise impressive monthly performance.

The council said investors appeared to buy the dip, with all regions bar Europe recording net inflows on 30 January and 2 February.

The gold price fell from US$5,608 per ounce on 29 January to $US4,405  per ounce on 2 February before commencing a rebound.

By the market close on Friday (Australian time), the gold price had recovered to about US$4,870 per ounce.

Interested in ASX gold ETFs?

Global asset manager, Sprott, which runs one of the world's largest gold bullion investment funds, says the reasons to invest in gold "remain in place, but are also compounding".

If you're interested in ASX gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), here are three options.

Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS)

The MNRS ETF invests in 56 gold shares, with 44% in Canada, 14% in the US, 13% in South Africa, and 8% in Brazil.

Its largest holding is Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM), which has CDIs listed on the ASX as Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM).

MNRS tracks the Nasdaq Global ex-Australia Gold Miners Hedged AUD Index.

This ASX ETF has total net assets of $267 million and a management fee of 0.57%.

VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX)

The GDX ETF invests in 93 shares, with 44% in Canada, 20% in the US, 11% in Australia, and 6% in China.

The ASX gold ETF's biggest holding is Newmont shares.

GDX is also invested in Aussie miners like Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) and Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

This ETF has total net assets of $1.61 billion and a 0.53% fee.

Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD)

The GOLD ETF seeks to mirror the performance of the gold price in Australian dollars.

The index it tracks is the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (AUD).

Global X says GOLD is the largest and most liquid gold-backed ETF on the ASX, with the lowest bid/ask spread.

This ETF has total net assets of $6 billion and a 0.4% fee.

The post Gold ETFs attracted a record US$19 billion in January appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The index was largely affected by selling pressure among investors offloading their gold mining stocks. This was after the metal price slumped from its peak.

New data from CommSec reveals the Australian shares that were most traded by its clients last week, highlighting investor sentiment and market momentum.

Most traded Australian shares in the last week of January

CommSec's data shows that Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO) continues to be a firm favourite among its clients. The drone operator's shares were the most traded Australian stock between the 26th and 30th of January.

Droneshield shares have gathered a lot of attention recently. The company is making great progress, and its share price continues to recover following the price crash late last year.

The shares are now just 43.4% below their all-time high of $6.60 seen in October. Over the course of last week, 58% of Droneshield activity was investors buying, but 42% was investors selling up and taking some recent gains.

At the time of writing, Droneshield shares are up 8.41% for the day to $3.74 a piece. For the year to date, the shares are up 12.16%. Analysts widely rate the shares as a buy following the company's strong quarterly update last week. 

Next on CommSec's most traded Australian shares list are Global X Metal Securities Australia Ltd (ASX: ETPMAG) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). 

The data shows that 69% of trades in the silver exchange-traded fund ETPMAG were purchases, after surging silver prices were thrust into the spotlight last week. Meanwhile, 65% of trades in the mining giant BHP were sales after the miner took the top spot as the largest stock on the ASX.

What else were investors interested in last week?

CommSec clients were also interested in Global X Physical Gold Structured (ASX: GOLD), 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX), PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC), and Perth Mint Gold Structured Product (ASX: PMGOLD). Most activity for each of these shares was buying.

Appen Ltd (ASX: APX) shares also made the top 10 most traded shares list during the week, but the majority of activity (41%) was investor selling.

The post These were the 10 most traded Australian shares last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Prices are now up more than 20% over the past month, with spot gold currently trading around US$5,321 after hitting a record intraday high of US$5,325.49 this morning.

The surge reflects rising demand for defensive assets as investors respond to ongoing global uncertainty.

Why is gold surging?

A renewed rush into safe-haven assets has been the main driver. Rising geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and ongoing uncertainty have unsettled markets, pushing investors toward gold as a store of value.

Currency moves have also helped. The US dollar has weakened in recent weeks, which makes gold cheaper for overseas buyers and boosts global demand.

Central banks are another important source of support. Many have been steadily increasing their gold holdings as they diversify away from the US dollar. That buying has continued into 2026, helping support prices as gold trades at record levels.

Interest rate expectations are also influencing demand. Markets are increasingly expecting interest rate cuts later this year. Lower rates make gold more attractive compared to cash and bonds, which offer less return when rates fall.

Strong demand is also being seen on the ground. Bullion dealers across Australia have reported long queues and strong retail interest as everyday investors look to buy physical gold during the rally.

How far can gold go from here?

Major investment banks have turned increasingly bullish. Several institutions now see gold prices holding above US$5,000 for an extended period, with some forecasts pointing toward US$5,500 or even US$6,000 if current conditions persist.

That said, short-term pullbacks are always possible after such a sharp move. Profit-taking, shifts in sentiment, or changes in currency markets could trigger volatility. Still, many analysts argue that the underlying drivers supporting gold remain firmly in place for now.

How can investors gain exposure?

Investors have several ways to gain exposure to gold, depending on their preferences and risk tolerance.

Buying physical gold bars or coins remains a popular option, though storage and insurance can add complexity.

Another approach is using exchange-traded products that track the gold price. For Australian investors, Global X Physical Gold Structured (ASX: GOLD) offers a simple way to gain exposure to physical gold through the ASX, without the need to store bullion directly.

Gold mining shares are another option, offering potential leverage to rising gold prices.

Foolish bottom line

Gold's surge above US$5,300 highlights how strongly investors are responding to today's mix of geopolitical risk, currency weakness, and shifting interest rate expectations.

While the rally may not be smooth from here, gold's role as a defensive asset stands out in the current environment.

The key question is no longer whether the gold rally can continue, but how much exposure investors are comfortable taking on.

The post Gold hits $5,300! How far can this rally go? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Many of the factors that have pushed gold higher over the past few years arguably remain in place today. Economic uncertainty remains a constant in the global economy, exemplified this week by the storm of tariff threats and trade sanctions being thrown around in response to US President Donald Trump's aspiration to acquire Greenland. Government debt across major economies of the world continues to climb. Central banks continue to snap up gold at record rates. And geopolitical tensions remain high across several global hotspots.

As such, many ASX investors may wish to add gold (or more gold) to their portfolios in 2026, despite the record-high prices. Of course, physical gold bullion in bar or coin form will continue to be the preference of many investors seeking to buy gold. However, many others might prefer the ease of investing in gold ETFs over holding physical metal.

There are many gold ETFs on the ASX that these investors can choose from. So, which is the best? Let's look at some options.

Which ASX gold ETF is the best to buy in 2026?

For starters, there's Perth Mint Gold (ASX: PMGOLD). This ETF is managed by the Perth Mint. Its units represent ownership of physical metal held in the Perth Mint vault, and are subject to a government guarantee from Western Australia. They can even be converted to gold bullion if investors wish. As with all of the ETFs we'll discuss today, this tie to gold means that PMGOLD units should rise and fall in value alongside the price of gold itself.

Perth Mint Gold charges a management fee of 0.15% per annum.

There's also the Global X Physical Gold ETF (ASX: GOLD) to consider. This gold ETF works similarly to Perth Mint Gold, with each unit representing entitlement to a physical store of precious metal. In this case, that bullion is held in a vault in London. The Global X Physical Gold ETF charges a fee of 0.4% per annum.

Another gold ETF in this vein is the VanEck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX: NUGG). NUGG units are tied to physical gold held in an Australian vault. Like PMGOLD, the units can be exchanged for bullion at investors' convenience. This ETF asks an annual management fee of 0.25%.

To hedge or not to hedge?

All of the funds we've discussed offer gold exposure to Australian investors in US dollar terms. The units are unhedged to Australian dollars, meaning that fluctuations in our exchange rate can influence the pricing of these ETFs, even if the underlying price of gold in US dollars doesn't change.

However, the BetaShares Gold Bullion Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: QAU) is different. It still holds bullion in a London vault, and its units are tied to the value of that bullion. But this ETF also uses currency hedging to mitigate any movements in the Australian dollar, effectively offering a pure exposure to gold in US dollar terms.

This doesn't come free, though, and QAU charges a management fee of 0.59% per annum for its services.

It's a similar story with the Global X Gold Bullion (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: GHLD). This ETF works almost identically to GOLD, but also adds a hedging mechanism. It asks 0.35% per annum in management fees.

Foolish Takeaway

As you can see, there are many gold ETFs on the ASX for precious metal enthusiasts to choose from. Which is the best choice comes down to individual preference. If you like the idea of an Australian holding, PMGOLD or NUGG might be your preferred option. PMGOLD also offers the lowest fees on this list, and has significantly more assets under management than NUGG.

If you wish to employ currency hedging, then QAU or GHLD are your only choices. Given the differences in fees there, I would personally be more inclined to give GHLD a look.

The post With gold up 71%, which is the best ASX gold ETF to buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This has continued into 2026, with gold now getting pretty close to US$4,700 an ounce. That same ounce was going for just over US$2,700 12 months ago, meaning gold has risen by more than 70% since early 2025. As such, we can see how lucrative investing in the yellow metal has been for investors lately.

The underlying fundamentals that have likely pushed gold up so high arguably remain in place. Major economies around the world, most particularly the United States and Japan, are still heavily indebted, with no signs of a turnaround. Geopolitical tensions remain elevated. And central banks continue to purchase gold at historically high rates.

With these factors in play, many Australian investors might wish to buy gold (or more of it) in 2026. If that's you, here are three ways you can do so.

How to buy gold in 2026

Bullion remains the gold standard

For many precious metal investors, there is no alternative to buying raw gold bullion, in either bar or coin form. This is the only way an individual can truly own gold. Whilst owning the yellow metal outright has a certain appeal, it is also costly. You will be paying a decent spread on bullion purchases from a dealer. Additionally, the costs of transporting, insuring and storing gold can be burdensome.

This is why many investors prefer easier options.

Buy gold ETFs

One of those options is buying a gold exchange-traded fund (ETF). Gold ETFs work by pooling investors' money together and purchasing gold bullion on their behalf. This bullion is usually stored in a bank vault, with each unit of the ETF representing a specific amount of gold. The price of the gold ETF should rise and fall alongside the price of gold over time. Some ASX examples of gold ETFs include Perth Mint Gold (ASX: PMGOLD), the Global X Physical Gold Structured ETF (ASX: GOLD) and the VanEck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX: NUGG).

Many investors like this approach to buying gold as it removes many of the costs and inconveniences of owning the physical metal. The downside is that you don't actually possess the gold you are buying, and have an indirect ownership stake in the metal.

Mining stocks

Finally, ASX investors can consider buying gold mining companies. There are many gold miners on the ASX. Some of the largest names are Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM), Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) and Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

These miners own vast tracts of gold and extract and sell the metal for a profit. Gold miners often outperform the gold price in a bull market, as they disproportionately benefit from increasing prices, thanks to their relatively fixed costs. That's why owning gold miners is the preferred choice for a gold investment for many professionals.

There are outsized risks involved with this approach, too, though. For one, buying shares of a gold miner is not a direct investment on gold itself. A miner's fortunes can be influenced by factors outside the process of gold itself. That could be anything from bad weather to incompetent corporate management.

For another, again, you do not own gold directly if you buy shares of a gold miner. This may make owning shares of one unappealing for the enthusiastic gold bug.

The post Want to buy gold in 2026? Here are 3 ways to do it appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the gold price is US$4,148 per ounce, up 0.8% today and up 57% in the year to date.

Trading Economics analysts said the gold price hit a three-week high on expectations of another interest rate cut in the US.

The analysts said growing economic uncertainty in the US had increased the likelihood of a rate cut.

The US Government has been shut down for 40 days now.

Meantime, new data shows job losses in the US economy last month, particularly in government and retail sectors.

On top of that, US consumer sentiment has fallen to a three-and-a-half-year low.

The analysts commented:

Traders are pricing in about a 64% chance of a 25-basis-point Fed cut in December, with Fed Governor Stephen Miran advocating a larger half-point reduction amid falling inflation and rising unemployment.

Meantime, America's biggest bank, JPMorgan, now projects the gold price could surpass US$5,000 per ounce next year.

JPMorgan isn't alone in its optimistic predictions.

French bank Societe Generale SA also says the gold price will reach US$5,000 per ounce by the end of next year.

Goldman Sachs is tipping US$4,900 per ounce by the end of 2026.

ASX gold shares surge on Tuesday

The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) is up 2.63% today, while the S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) is down 0.09%.

The market's biggest ASX gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), is trading 3.45% higher at $26.06.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price is up 1.9% to $11.29.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares are 4.29% higher at $136.47.

The Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) share price is $6.24, up 3.48% today.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares are $5.18, rising 3.1%.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares are up 0.87% to $5.77.

Perth Mint Gold (ASX: PMGOLD) shares are up 2.27% to $63.15.

Among the ASX small-cap gold shares, Barton Gold Holdings Ltd (ASX: BGD) shares are up 7.14% to $1.20.

New Murchison Gold Ltd (ASX: NMG) shares are 6.1% higher at 3.5 cents apiece.

The Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN) share price is up 3.1% to $4.65.

The Golden Horse Minerals Ltd CDI (ASX: GHM) share price is up 4.9% to 75 cents.

Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8) shares are up 5.39% to $1.08.

The Dateline Resources Ltd (ASX: DTR) share price is up 0.69% to 29 cents.

What about ASX gold ETFs?

Among the gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) is up 4.1% to $13.59 per unit.

MNRS seeks to mirror the performance of the Nasdaq Global ex-Australia Gold Miners Hedged AUD Index and invests in 56 stocks.

The VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX) is up 3.7% to $117.85 per unit.

The GDX ETF tracks the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index (AUD) and invests in 63 stocks.

Global X Physical Gold ETF (ASX: GOLD) is up 2.35% to $58.26 per unit.

The GOLD ETF seeks to mirror the growth in the Australian dollar gold price.

The post Why are ASX gold shares and ETFs soaring today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Gold last hit a record high back in mid-October, topping out at just over US$4,379 per ounce. Since then, the precious metal has been correcting, and sharply. At current pricing, gold is fetching approximately US$3,960 an ounce. That's down almost 10% from that all-time high.

That's still extremely lofty by historical standards, to be sure. Consider that the yellow metal was priced at US$2,740 this time last year, and US$2,640 at the start of 2025. That still means gold is up a whopping 50% this year to date.

But a dip is a dip, and there would be more than a few investors keen to take advantage of it, if the recent queues outside bullion dealerships are anything to go by.

While buying physical bullion in the form of bars or coins will always remain the preferred way of investing in gold for many, there are alternative options on the ASX that are arguably easier (and cheaper) to pursue for gold bugs.

Let's discuss two of those alternatives today.

2 ASX ETFs for buying the gold dip

Global X Physical Gold Structured ETF (ASX: GOLD)

First up, we have this physical gold fund from Global X. This ETF represents a direct alternative to buying the precious metal yourself. Each unit of this exchange-traded fund (ETF) represents a direct investment in the metal, which is stored in physical form in a London vault.

As such, the unit price of this ETF should rise and fall almost in tandem with the price of gold itself.

Of course, this doesn't come free; the Global X Physical Gold ETF charges an annual management fee of 0.4% per annum. That still might be fine with investors not wanting to pay the spreads on physical bullion, not to mention insurance or storage costs.

VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)

Another gold ETF for investors who wish to buy the dip is this offering from VanEck. Instead of buying precious metals itself though, this fund focuses on the companies that own reserves of it under the ground, and extract, process, and sell it to the world. Gold miners, in other words. This ETF holds miners from all over the world, including our own Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM), as well as Barrick Mining Corp, Franco-Nevada Corp, and Wheaton Precious Metals.

The share prices of gold miners tend to offer 'leveraged' exposure to the price of gold. That means they often rise by more than the metal itself when demand is high, but also tend to drop by more when the mood turns.

As a case in point, the GDX unit price is up a whopping 91.75% in 2025 to date, but has tanked by about 19% since mid-October.

As such, this fund, although riskier, might be more appealing to long-term gold bulls.

The post 2 ASX ETFs to buy if you want to buy the gold dip appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price has notched up several records throughout 2025, including breaking the US$4,000 per ounce barrier for the first time ever at the start of October.

Overall, the price of the yellow metal has now surged by about 58% since the start of the year.

Analysts at Trading Economics attributed much of this recent rally to safe haven buying amidst the US government shutdown, geopolitical tensions, and the prospect of US interest rate cuts.

But gold isn't the only precious metal making waves.

This week, silver traded above US$52 per ounce for the very first time, smashing its previous record price set back in 1980.

All up, the silver price has now ballooned by nearly 80% since early January.

And according to some experts, the precious metal rally could just be warming up.

Is the gold and silver rally set to continue?

In a research note released on Monday, analysts at Bank of America Corp (NYSE: BAC) lifted their gold and silver price targets significantly.

As reported by Reuters, the bank now forecasts gold to average US$4,400 per ounce next year, with a peak of US$5,000 per ounce.

Here, it pointed to US economic uncertainty and the prospect of rate cuts as key catalysts, stating:

The White House's unorthodox policy framework should remain supportive for gold given fiscal deficits, rising debt, intentions to reduce the current account deficit/capital inflows, along with a push to cut rates with inflation around 3%.

Bank of America's outlook adds to another bullish forecast from fellow US investment bank, Goldman Sachs Group Inc (NYSE: GS).

Last week, the bank lifted its gold price forecast from US$4,300 to US$4,900 per ounce by the second quarter of next year.

It cited strong inflows from exchange-traded funds (ETFs) alongside sustained central bank buying for its reasoning.

Meanwhile, Bank of America is also tipping the silver price to reach as high as US$65 per ounce next year, with an average of US$56.25 per ounce.

However, it cautioned that a short-term correction is possible for both silver and gold prices.

ASX gold and silver ETFs shine bright

It comes as little surprise that two leading ASX ETFs for precious metal exposure have rallied sharply in recent months.

Shares in the Global X Physical Silver Structured (ASX: ETPMAG) ETF have jumped by 75% since early January to close out Tuesday at $76.27 per share.

This ETF is designed to generate returns that mirror the silver price in Australian dollars, minus management fees. 

Meanwhile, shares in its gold counterpart – the Global X Physical Gold Structured (ASX: GOLD) ETF – have jumped by about 52% during the same period.

The post Expert tips gold price to reach US$5,000 as silver sets all-time record in precious metal rally appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's a gain worth 48.15%, well above what any stock market, or most other assets for that matter, have returned.

Given this incredible runup, many ASX investors might be wondering how they can get in on the action. There's always the option of buying physical bullion if one wants to buy gold, of course. However, many investors don't want to worry about the hassle of buying and storing heavy gold bars or coins.

Luckily for those investors, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) provide a compelling alternative. Gold ETFs work by holding a store of the precious metal, usually in a bank vault somewhere, and offering investors a chance to indirectly invest in that gold stockpile by buying units of the ETF.

The price of these units should move in tandem with the price of gold, allowing investors to obtain a return if the gold price continues to rise. There is no need to own physical metal itself with this strategy, although this does come with the drawback of having to pay the ETF provider an annual fee.

Let's talk about a few ASX ETFs that might suit an investor wishing to buy gold today.

Buy gold with these ASX ETFs

The simplest funds that offer exposure to the gold price include the Global X Physical Gold Structured ETF (ASX: GOLD) and the Perth Mint Gold ETF (ASX: PMGOLD). Both of these ETFs work in the manner described above. The Global X fund holds its gold store in a London vault, while Perth Mint Gold's stores are held locally in Perth.

Critically, both funds offer investors who wish to buy gold unhedged exposure to the precious metal. This means that the units will reflect the price of gold in Australian dollar terms rather than US dollars.

This can be beneficial if the price of gold rises in US dollar terms whilst the value of our dollar falls. However, it can work against investors if our dollar gains strength relative to the greenback.

The Global X Gold ETF charges a management fee of 0.4% per annum, while Perth Mint Gold asks a far cheaper 0.15% per annum.

For investors who wish to take that currency factor out of the equation, there are also ETFs that offer hedged exposure available. These will give investors a 'purer' exposure to gold, meaning that movements in our dollar won't affect the value of the ETF, only the price movements of gold itself.

Investors have a few options to consider if this is the path they wish to take. Two examples are the BetaShares Gold Bullion Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: QAU) and the Global X Gold Bullion (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: GHLD).

Bear in mind that hedged ETFs can often be more expensive to own than their unhedged counterparts. To illustrate, GHLD units will set investors back 0.35% per annum, while QAU will cost 0.59% per annum.

The post Want to buy gold? Try these ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

You might have exposure to some of the major blue-chip companies listed on the ASX. This could be a variety of the big banks, mining and materials stocks etc. 

You also know that a balanced portfolio includes stocks outside Australia. Based on this, you might have bought a fund that tracks the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX). 

This gives you exposure to sectors less common on the ASX like technology and healthcare, as well as big global companies like Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL). 

At this point, your portfolio is looking solid. 

Now you may be looking to add a small but concentrated investment in one specific sector. 

This is called thematic investing. Here are some growing themes you may be interested in targeting. 

Commodities 

Commodities are simply raw materials.

They can be precious metals like gold and silver or foodstuffs like corn and wheat and even energy resources like crude oil and natural gas.

This year, physical commodities like gold have far outpaced the returns of the ASX 200. The price of physical gold has risen more than 40%. 

This can be a strong investment for diversification because commodity prices can often move differently from share prices.

Gold has a long history of preserving its value, so investors flock to it when other financial markets get rocky. 

If you are interested in adding commodities like gold to your portfolio, some ASX ETFs to consider include: 

• Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD)
• BetaShares Gold Bullion ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: QAU)
• VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)

Artificial Intelligence 

A growing theme that may interest investors is artificial intelligence.

According to Grand View Research, the global AI market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38.1% from 2022 to 2030. 

AI stocks can be companies involved in chip making, software, or firms that utilise artificial intelligence in their applications.

Importantly, the ASX does not have as many AI focussed stocks as other markets. This can make AI ASX ETFs beneficial, as investors can gain exposure to innovative AI companies in the US, Asia and Europe. 

Some to consider for AI exposure include: 

• Global X AI Infrastructure ETF (ASX: AINF) 
• Global X Robo Global Robotics And Automation ETF (ASX: ROBO)
• Global X Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: GXAI)

ESG ASX ETFs

ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance. It is a growing theme amongst investors to target not only financial growth, but simultaneously have a positive global impact through their investment choices.

As the name suggests, this may involve targeting companies committed to contributing to climate targets, supporting human rights etc. It can also involve actively excluding companies that contribute to violence, war, alcohol/tobacco manufacturing or negatively impacting the environment. 

If this sounds like a strategy you would like to include in your investment portfolio, some ASX ETFs to consider include: 

• Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR)
• Vanguard Ethically Conscious International Shares Index Etf (ASX: VESG)
• BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI)
• Betashares Energy Transition Metals Etf (ASX: XMET)

The post Thematic ASX ETF investing ideas appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For many investors, the surge is more than a headline. It reflects a growing desire for stability in an unstable world, and gold has once again stepped into its familiar role as a safe harbour.

What's fuelling the rise?

The rally is not being driven by one factor alone. Instead, it's the convergence of several powerful forces. Expectations of US interest rate cuts have weakened the dollar, making gold more attractive to overseas buyers. Central banks across Asia and emerging markets are steadily adding to their reserves, diversifying away from the greenback. And with sovereign debt loads swelling worldwide, investors are questioning how long the current economic order can hold together.

At the same time, a less obvious but increasingly important driver has emerged: gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Inflows into these funds have surged to their highest level in years. That creates a self-reinforcing cycle: as investors buy ETF units, providers must purchase physical bullion to back them. This extra demand pushes prices higher, which attracts more inflows, and the loop continues. It's a feedback mechanism that helps explain the speed and strength of gold's move upward.

Why investors remain bullish

The momentum in gold is supported by both sentiment and structure. On the sentiment side, uncertainty about trade, politics, and economic growth keeps drawing capital into safe-haven assets. Structurally, central banks are expected to remain steady buyers, and ETFs have broadened access for retail and institutional investors alike.

Some analysts now see scope for gold to climb towards US$4,000 an ounce or beyond over the next year. While nothing is guaranteed, the current alignment of lower yields, a softer dollar, and robust demand provides a clear runway for further gains.

A place in modern portfolios

For investors, the appeal of gold is not about chasing the latest rally but about balance. Unlike shares or bonds, gold does not rely on cash flows or creditworthiness. It stands apart, offering diversification when other assets are struggling.

ETFs make this role more accessible than ever. Products like Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD) or BetaShares Gold Bullion Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: QAU) give simple exposure to bullion without the challenges of storage or insurance. They also form part of the very mechanism that has helped propel the price higher in recent months.

Foolish Takeaway

Gold's surge to record highs is a story of more than fear. It's about a centuries-old asset finding new life in a modern investment world, with ETFs amplifying demand and central banks reinforcing the trend.

For those seeking resilience in their portfolios, gold may continue to shine — not as a replacement for growth investments, but as a counterbalance when the world feels uncertain.

The post Why gold's record-breaking rally could keep climbing higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This surge has been driven by a cocktail of factors: ongoing geopolitical tensions, persistent inflation, expectations of central bank easing, and robust demand from global institutions. Central banks themselves have been large buyers, further reinforcing the view that gold remains a reliable hedge in uncertain times.

Why investors still flock to gold

Gold has been trusted for thousands of years as both a currency and a store of value. Unlike paper assets, it doesn't corrode, inflate away, or depend on the fortunes of a single company or government.

That said, experts caution it's not always the smoothest investment. Research from earlier in 2025 showed gold returned an average of 6.7% per annum between 1990 and 2025, below the 8.1% average return from global equities. While it can be volatile, many investors see gold as an important portfolio diversifier, something to hold when shares and bonds are under pressure.

The ETF advantage

Owning gold bars or coins may sound appealing, but it's not the most practical way for most Australians to invest. That's where exchange-traded funds (ETFs) come in. They provide exposure to the gold price, backed by physical holdings, without the hassle of storage and insurance.

Here are 3 ASX ETFs worth knowing about:

1. Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD)

The GOLD ETF offers a straightforward way to invest in physical bullion, having been listed on the ASX for more than 20 years. Its aim is simple: deliver investors a return that closely tracks the Australian dollar gold price, minus a small management fee. For investors who want direct exposure to the metal itself without storage headaches, GOLD ETF remains one of the more established choices.

2. BetaShares Gold Bullion ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: QAU)

While GOLD ETF tracks the local dollar gold price, QAU ETF adds a twist. It hedges against Australian dollar movements, ensuring investors get a cleaner exposure to the underlying gold price in US dollars. That can be especially useful when the local currency swings, which can either amplify or dilute returns. For those who want a "pure play" on global gold moves, QAU ETF may be a stronger fit.

3. VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)

For something different, the GDX ETF doesn't hold bullion — it invests in a diversified basket of global gold mining companies, including several from the ASX 200. As the largest gold miners ETF in the world, GDX ETF gives investors exposure to some of the industry's biggest names. Over the 12 months to 3 September 2025, it returned over 80%. This leverage to the gold price can work both ways: miners often rally harder when gold rises, but can fall faster when it retreats.

Foolish takeaway

Gold's rally to record highs has caught plenty of attention, and for good reason. It's a centuries-old safe haven that continues to shine when uncertainty builds.

For Australian investors, ETFs offer easy ways to tap into the metal's momentum. 

The post Gold is on fire: 3 ASX ETFs to ride the rally appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.