AAAU & SLV: Two Precious Metal ETFs That Can Add Some Shine to Your Portfolio
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Adé Hennis)February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The iShares Silver Trust (SLV) and Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF (AAAU) are two ETFs that provide investors direct exposure to silver and gold, respectively. These precious metal investments have shown strong returns over the past year, offering a shine in portfolios seeking diversification or hedge against economic uncertainties. While both ETFs cater to the demand for precious metals, they differ in cost structures, risk profiles, and performance metrics, making them suitable for different investment strategies.
SLV, which tracks silver, has demonstrated significant growth due to its wide industrial applications, including renewable energy and electronics. On the other hand, AAAU, focused on gold, is known for its stability as a safe-haven asset during times of economic instability. Both ETFs are physically backed, ensuring that investors hold actual metal in vaults, providing transparency and reducing counterparty risk. However, their expense ratios differ slightly, with SLV being more cost-effective than AAAU.
Investors should consider these ETFs based on their portfolio goals. Gold (AAAU) is often preferred for its role as a hedge against inflation and market volatility, while silver (SLV) offers exposure to both precious metals and industrial demand. Both ETFs provide an avenue to diversify risk, with gold offering stability and silver presenting opportunities in emerging technologies.
For finance enthusiasts, these ETFs highlight the importance of strategic asset allocation. Precious metals have historically served as a safeguard against economic downturns, making them a valuable addition to any portfolio. With their unique characteristics and performance track records, SLV and AAAU offer tailored options for investors looking to capitalize on the precious metals
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/15/2026