Top 10 Precious Metal ETFs for 2025

Based on year-to-date (YTD) performance as of October 2025, here are the top 10 precious metal ETFs. These focus on commodity-tracking funds (physical or futures-based), ranked by YTD returns. Miners and leveraged ETFs are excluded, as they represent different strategies. Performance figures are approximate and reflect the underlying metal's price movements minus expenses. Key metrics include ticker, name, primary metal(s), YTD return, AUM (approximate), and expense ratio.

1. VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX)

• YTD Performance: +90–135% (predicted range for October 2025) (TradingView)
• Core gold miners index; updated data shows explosive growth on metal prices. Expense Ratio: 0.51%. Recent Performance: YTD +125.30%. 1M +10.9%.
• AUM: ~$16.5B (estimated, based on historical size and 2025 inflows) 
• Expense Ratio: 0.51%
• Rationale: Strong performance has been driven by rising gold prices and expanding miner profit margins. This fund tops the list not only based on its impressive returns but also due to its large assets under management (AUM), reflecting substantial investor interest. The heightened demand indicates that precious metals continue to be viewed as a reliable hedge against inflation in the current economic climate.
• VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) is listed on both the NYSE Arca exchange (as GDX) and the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) (as GDX.MX).
• Final recommendation: Buy
• Confidence Level: High
• Expected time frame: Buy and hold for 3 months (targeting continued gold rally into year-end amid economic uncertainty)

Note on GDX vs GDXJ: GDX offers exposure to large-cap gold mining companies, while GDXJ focuses on small-cap, junior gold miners, which are generally more volatile and potentially offer higher returns but also higher risk. GDX tracks the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index, whereas GDXJ follows the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index, making GDXJ the more speculative choice for investors seeking higher leverage to the gold price.

2. PPLT - abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF

• Primary Metal(s): Platinum
• YTD Return: ~75%
• AUM: ~$2.13B
• Expense Ratio: 0.60%
• Note: Direct platinum exposure; industrial demand boosts performance. 

3. SLV - iShares Silver Trust

• Primary Metal(s): Silver
• YTD Return: 57%
• AUM: $15B
• Expense Ratio: 0.50%

4. PLTM - GraniteShares Platinum Trust

• Primary Metal(s): Platinum
• YTD Return: 78%
• AUM: $150M
• Expense Ratio: 0.50%

5. SIVR - abrdn Physical Silver Shares ETF

• Primary Metal(s): Silver
• YTD Return: 57%
• AUM: $1.6B
• Expense Ratio: 0.30%

6 iShares Gold Trust (IAU)

• YTD Performance: +45 - 50% (predicted range for October 2025) 
• AUM: ~$30B (estimated, based on historical size and gold’s safe-haven appeal) 
• Expense Ratio: 0.25%
• Rationale: Lower returns than gold miners but offers stability as a physical gold ETF. Significant AUM reflects its popularity as a hedge. (https://sg.finance.yahoo.com/quote/VOO/)
• Final recommendation: Buy
• Confidence Level: Medium
• Expected time frame: Buy and hold for 3 months (serving as a safe-haven hedge amid ongoing market volatility)

7. DBP - Invesco DB Precious Metals Fund

• Primary Metal(s): Gold & Silver (futures)
• YTD Return: 50%
• AUM: $238M
• Expense Ratio: 0.77%

8. GLTR - abrdn Physical Precious Metals Basket ETF

• Primary Metal(s): Gold, Silver, Platinum, Palladium
• YTD Return: 50%
• AUM: $1.3B
• Expense Ratio: 0.60%

9. GLDM - SPDR Gold MiniShares

• Primary Metal(s): Gold
• YTD Return: 45%
• AUM: $12B
• Expense Ratio: 0.10%

10. SGOL - abrdn Physical Gold Shares ETF

• Primary Metal(s): Gold
• YTD Return: 45%
• AUM: $4.5B
• Expense Ratio: 0.17%

Platinum ETFs lead due to strong industrial demand and supply constraints, followed by silver amid electronics and solar sector growth. Gold remains a safe-haven staple, while baskets offer diversified exposure. Investors should consider liquidity, fees, and tax implications (e.g., physical ETFs may qualify for long-term capital gains). Past performance doesn't guarantee future results.

Disclaimer

The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial or investment advice. The figures, rankings, and projections are based on publicly available data, company reports, and industry estimates as of 2025. 

While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information, One Day Advisor and the article’s authors do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the content for any particular purpose. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently and consult qualified professionals before making any business, investment, or healthcare decisions based on the information provided.

The article may reference ongoing developments, regulatory actions, or market events that are subject to change. One Day Advisor is not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this information.

References: 

1. Best Gold and Silver ETFs of 2025: Should You Buy Today?
2. Top 10 Stocks and ETFs Poised to Outperform in October 2025
3. Top Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP ETFs to Watch in October 2025: Updated Performance, AUM, and Investment Insights