Summary
SPDR Gold Trust (GLD) reported its financial results for the quarter ending December 31, 2011. The Trust's primary asset is gold bullion, and its performance is directly tied to the price of gold. During the quarter, the Trust saw an increase in its gold holdings by volume, with creations exceeding redemptions. This activity resulted in a net gain from operations, although the net gain per share decreased compared to the same period in the prior year. Operationally, the Trust continues to manage its expenses by selling the minimal amount of gold necessary to cover costs. Consequently, the Trust does not maintain cash balances, and its cash flow from operations is negligible. Investors should note the Trust's reliance on the London Fix for valuation and the inherent risks associated with gold price volatility, currency fluctuations, and global economic events.
Financial Highlights
17 data points| Gross Profit | $25.71M |
| Operating Expenses | $68.62M |
| Net Income | $785.30M |
| EPS (Basic) | $1.88 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 417.04M |
Key Highlights
- 1Total gain on gold for the three months ended December 31, 2011, was $853,920, a decrease from $1,179,263 in the prior year period.
- 2Net gain from operations for the quarter was $785,297, down from $1,122,025 in the prior year quarter.
- 3Net gain per share for the quarter was $1.88, lower than $2.64 in the same period of 2010.
- 4The Trust experienced net creations of gold during the quarter, with 2,383,450 ounces created versus 1,935,505 ounces redeemed.
- 5The market value of the Trust's gold holdings stood at $63.51 billion as of December 31, 2011, with a cost basis of $44.53 billion, indicating a significant unrealized gain.
- 6The Trust reported no cash and cash equivalents, adhering to its strategy of using gold sales to cover operational expenses.
- 7Shareholder deficit decreased from $(21,948,152) thousand to $(18,982,048) thousand during the quarter.