Industry revenues: Not applicable
Top 3 markets: Switzerland, Germany, France
Market shares: Switzerland: approx. 40%, Germany: approx. 30%, France: approx. 15% (estimated, 2026)

The iShares Gold ETF is an exchange-traded fund that tracks the price of gold. As a commodity ETF, it does not generate revenues from various industries, but rather reflects the performance of the underlying commodity.

The top markets for this ETF are typically the countries where the ETF is most traded. Switzerland, as the home market, has the largest share, followed by Germany and France, which are significant financial markets in Europe. These estimates are based on trading volume and investor interest in these regions.

Production: Not applicable

The iShares ETF II (CH) - iShares Gold (CH) is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that holds physical gold as its underlying asset. As a financial product, the ETF itself does not produce any physical goods. Instead, it invests in physical gold stored in vaults to secure the value of the fund. The storage typically takes place in secure facilities, often in financial centers such as Switzerland or London.

Current Strategy: Diversification and Cost Efficiency

The iShares ETF II (CH) - iShares Gold (CH) pursues a strategy focused on diversification and cost efficiency. As part of BlackRock's iShares product line, the fund is designed to provide investors with a cost-effective way to invest in physical gold.

The strategy aims to keep management costs low while increasing liquidity and transparency. This is achieved through the use of technological solutions and optimized trading processes.

Additionally, the fund relies on broad marketing to increase investor interest, especially in times of economic uncertainty when gold is considered a safe haven. The long-term strategy also includes adapting to regulatory changes and tapping into new markets to further maximize growth potential.

Main commodity: Gold
Countries of origin: South Africa, Australia, Russia, Canada, USA

The iShares Gold ETF invests in physical gold, which is held in the form of bars. The main suppliers of gold are typically countries with large gold mines. South Africa, Australia, Russia, Canada, and the USA are among the largest gold producers worldwide. These countries export gold, which is then used by financial products like the iShares Gold ETF to secure the value of the fund.

Since the ETF holds physical gold, the exact origin of the gold often depends on the deposits and trading practices of the banks involved. The exact importing countries may vary depending on where the gold can be sourced most cost-effectively and efficiently.

Competitive Advantage: Moderate to Strong (Estimation 2026)

The iShares Gold ETF offers investors a way to invest in physical gold without having to store the metal themselves. Its competitive advantage is based on several factors:

1. Market Position and Brand Recognition: iShares is one of the most well-known brands in the ETF sector, creating trust among investors. This leads to high liquidity and a broad investor base.

2. Cost Efficiency: ETFs are generally more cost-effective than actively managed funds. The iShares Gold ETF benefits from low management fees, making it attractive to cost-conscious investors.

3. Physical Backing: The ETF is physically backed with gold, which is considered a safe haven in times of economic uncertainty. This enhances its attractiveness compared to synthetic or non-physically backed products.

However, the competitive advantage could be challenged by other providers offering similar products with potentially lower fees. Nevertheless, iShares remains a strong player in the market due to its established market presence and the quality of its products.

Institutional Investor Share: Estimated around 70% (2026) Insider Buys/Sells: No significant transactions known (2026)

The institutional investor share in ETFs like the iShares Gold (CH) is usually high, as these products are often used by institutional investors for diversification and hedging against market risks. An estimate of around 70% is realistic, based on typical market trends and the popularity of gold ETFs among institutional investors.

Insider buys and sells are less relevant for ETFs, as they are funds and not individual companies. Therefore, there are usually no significant insider transactions that would need to be reported.

Market share of iShares Gold (CH): Estimated 18% (2026)

Main competitors and their market shares:

1. SPDR Gold Shares (GLD): 25%
2. iShares Gold Trust (IAU): 20%
3. iShares Gold (CH): 18%
4. Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares ETF (SGOL): 15%
5. VanEck Merk Gold Trust (OUNZ): 10%

Moat of iShares Gold (CH): Moderate

iShares Gold (CH) has a significant market share in the gold ETF sector, which is attributed to the strong brand of iShares and the efficient cost structure. The company's moat is moderate as it benefits from the established brand and wide distribution network.

However, some competitors, especially SPDR Gold Shares, have a larger market share and potentially a stronger moat due to their market leadership and the high liquidity of their products. iShares Gold (CH) needs to compete through innovative products and cost-efficient structures to maintain or expand its market share.

The competition is intense, and while iShares Gold (CH) has some advantages, the moats of the leading competitors are often wider, especially due to their market presence and the liquidity of their ETFs.

Gold Price Forecast: Increase by 5-7% annually until 2026 (estimate based on historical trends and market analysis)

Inflation Protection: Gold is traditionally seen as a hedge against inflation.

Market Uncertainty: Gold often benefits in times of economic uncertainty.

The iShares Gold ETF provides investors with a way to invest in physical gold without buying the metal directly. Since gold is considered a safe haven, investing in this ETF can serve as a good hedge against economic uncertainties and inflation.

Given the current geopolitical tensions and economic volatility, investing in gold could be sensible, as the gold price is expected to moderately rise in the coming years. This could positively impact the value of the ETF.

Additionally, the ETF offers portfolio diversification as it is not directly tied to stock market fluctuations. However, investors should consider their risk tolerance and investment objectives before making a decision.

Dividend: None

The iShares ETF II (CH) - iShares Gold (CH) (SWX:CSGOLD) does not pay any dividends. This ETF is designed to track the price development of gold and invests in physical gold. Since gold itself does not generate income in the form of dividends or interest, there are no distributions to investors.

Investors in this ETF mainly benefit from the appreciation of the gold price and not from regular payouts. This is typical for commodity ETFs that invest in physical assets.