GLD vs IJR
SPDR Gold Shares vs iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF
Last updated: 2026-04-10
SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) is an exchange-traded fund issued by SPDR 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 Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (IJR) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to small-cap U.S. equities with higher growth potential and volatility. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.06%. The fund offers a moderate dividend yield of 1.23%. Launched in 2000, the fund has a 26-year track record.
Quick Verdict
IJR is significantly cheaper at 0.06% vs 0.40% expense ratio, saving you approximately $667 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. Over the past year, GLD has significantly outperformed with a 49.8% return vs 38.1%.
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
Top Holdings
IJR Top Holdings
| Name | Weight |
|---|---|
| BLK CSH FND TREASURY SL AGENCYXTSLA | 1.29% |
| Viavi Solutions Inc.VIAV | 0.60% |
| FormFactor, Inc.FORM | 0.57% |
| Eastman Chemical CompanyEMN | 0.53% |
| Primoris Services CorporationPRIM | 0.53% |
| Element Solutions IncESI | 0.53% |
| Argan, Inc.AGX | 0.51% |
| Semtech CorporationSMTC | 0.50% |
| ESCO Technologies Inc.ESE | 0.50% |
| Match Group, Inc.MTCH | 0.48% |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose IJR 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.