IAU is an efficient way for investors to hold physical gold. The fund removes the complexities for retail investors of buying, transporting, storing and insuring physical gold. Using a grantor trust structure, the fund is a very stable fund. The underlying gold bars are held in vaults around the world, with an inventory list available on the Issuers website. Similar to its competitor, GLD, investors should know that long-term gains have noteworthy tax liabilities, since IAU is considered a collectible. The daily NAV of the trust is based on that days LBMA Gold Price PM. Where IAU shines for buy-and-hold retail investors is its lower handle and low expense ratio. At launch, shares of IAU corresponded to 1/100th of an ounce of gold (though this will decrease over time due to expenses). The fund is a solid choice for gold investors.
