Summary
iShares Gold Trust (IAU) reported a significant decrease in its net asset value (NAV) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, dropping from approximately $11.65 billion in 2012 to $6.27 billion. This decline was primarily driven by a substantial decrease in the price of gold, which fell by 27.79% during the year. Consequently, the number of outstanding Shares also decreased from 719.55 million to 538 million. The Trust's objective is to reflect the price of gold, less expenses. As a passive investment vehicle, it does not actively manage its gold holdings. The primary expense is the Sponsor's fee, which is 0.25% of the NAV. While the Sponsor covers many administrative costs, the Trust must sell gold to cover its own expenses and liabilities, leading to a gradual decrease in the amount of gold represented by each share over time. Investors should be aware that Share prices can trade at a premium or discount to the NAV due to market supply and demand and differing trading hours between gold markets and the NYSE Arca.
Financial Highlights
14 data points| Revenue | -$606.32M |
| Operating Expenses | $21.74M |
| Net Income | -$628.07M |
| EPS (Basic) | $-2.00 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 313.56M |
Key Highlights
- 1Net Asset Value (NAV) decreased by 46.15% from $11.65 billion in 2012 to $6.27 billion in 2013.
- 2The primary driver for the NAV decrease was a 27.79% decline in the price of gold.
- 3Outstanding Shares decreased by 25.2% from 719.55 million to 538 million.
- 4The Trust's primary recurring expense is the Sponsor's fee, amounting to 0.25% of the NAV, which was $21.74 million in 2013.
- 5Gold bullion inventory write-down of $750.59 million occurred in 2013 due to market value falling below average cost.
- 6Shares may trade at a premium or discount to their Net Asset Value (NAV).
- 7The Trust is a passive investment vehicle and does not actively manage its gold holdings.