GLD vs XLE
SPDR Gold Shares vs State Street Energy Select Sector SPDR 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.
State Street Energy Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLE) is an exchange-traded fund issued by SPDR that provides exposure to us sector - energy securities. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.08%. The fund offers an attractive dividend yield of 2.62%. Launched in 1998, the fund has a 28-year track record.
Quick Verdict
XLE is significantly cheaper at 0.08% vs 0.40% expense ratio, saving you approximately $627 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. GLD has edged ahead over the past year (49.8% vs 47.9%).
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
XLE Top Holdings
| Name | Weight |
|---|---|
| Exxon Mobil CorporationXOM | 23.09% |
| Chevron CorporationCVX | 17.03% |
| ConocoPhillipsCOP | 7.23% |
| SLB N.V.SLB | 4.33% |
| The Williams Companies, Inc.WMB | 4.30% |
| EOG Resources, Inc.EOG | 4.21% |
| Valero Energy CorporationVLO | 4.08% |
| Marathon Petroleum CorporationMPC | 3.82% |
| Phillips 66PSX | 3.78% |
| Kinder Morgan, Inc.KMI | 3.60% |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose XLE if...
you want the lowest fees and plan to buy and hold long-term. Over decades, the expense ratio difference compounds significantly.