Investing Insights

Investors are piling into global gold ETFs for a safe haven from uncertainty. Demand surged in the first half of 2025, according to a new report from the World Gold Council. The industry trade group points to geopolitical turmoil, global trade policies, and higher gold prices for driving interest in these ETFs. The lure of investing in gold ETFs can vary from wanting to diversify a portfolio, hedge against inflation risks, or simply bet on rising prices. Bryan Armour explains what you should know about this speculative asset. He’s the director of ETF and passive strategies research for North America at Morningstar Research Services. On this episode:What are gold ETFs, how many types are there, and how do they work? The World Gold Council says there was strong demand for global gold ETFs in the first half of 2025. How much money has flowed in and out of these ETFs, and what’s your take on that?How have gold ETFs held up against market volatility in 2025? How does it compare with other periods of uncertainty? L