What is the primary asset held by the iShares Gold Trust (IAU)?

The primary asset held by the iShares Gold Trust (IAU) is gold bullion.

How is the net asset value (NAV) per Share of IAU calculated?

The NAV per Share is calculated by subtracting the Trust's accrued fees, expenses, and liabilities from the value of the gold bullion it holds, and then dividing by the number of outstanding Shares. The gold's value is typically determined using the London PM Fix price.

What are the main expenses for the iShares Gold Trust?

The primary ongoing expense for the iShares Gold Trust is the Sponsor's fee, which accrues daily at an annualized rate of 0.25% of the adjusted net asset value. Other administrative expenses are assumed by the Sponsor.

Can individual investors buy or sell shares of IAU directly from the Trust?

No, individual investors cannot buy or sell Shares directly from the Trust. Shares are issued and redeemed in large aggregations (Baskets) through Authorized Participants, which are registered broker-dealers.

IAU 10-Q Quarterly Report Q2 FY2012 — Revenue, Net Income, EPS

Summary

The iShares Gold Trust (IAU) 10-Q filing for the period ending June 30, 2012, reports on the Trust's performance and financial condition. The Trust's primary asset is gold bullion, and its objective is to mirror the price of gold, less expenses. During the second quarter of 2012, the Trust experienced a decrease in net asset value primarily due to a decline in the London PM Fix price for gold, which fell by 3.85%. This led to a 3.89% decrease in the net asset value per Share. Despite the market's downward movement in gold prices during the quarter, the Trust saw an increase in outstanding Shares, indicating continued investor interest in gold exposure through this vehicle.

Financial Highlights

8 data points

Beta

Net Income

$71.61M

EPS (Diluted)

$0.24

Total Assets

$7.23B

Financial Statements

Beta

Operating Expenses	$5.78M
Net Income	$71.61M
EPS (Basic)	$0.24
Shares Outstanding (Basic)	296.01M

Key Highlights

1The Trust's net asset value decreased by 3.75% in the quarter ending June 30, 2012, reflecting a decline in the price of gold.
2The London PM Fix price for gold decreased by 3.85% during the quarter, impacting the Trust's valuation.
3Net income for the quarter was $71.6 million, driven by gains on gold distributed for Share redemptions and sales to cover expenses.
4Total expenses, primarily Sponsor's fees, amounted to $5.78 million for the quarter.
5The number of outstanding Shares increased to 597.45 million by the end of the quarter, with 23.7 million Shares issued and 22.7 million Shares redeemed.
6The Trust holds approximately 5.8 million ounces of gold bullion, valued at $9.3 billion at fair value.
7The Trust is structured as a grantor trust for tax purposes, with gains and losses passing through to shareholders.

ISHARES GOLD TRUST Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2012

Summary

Financial Highlights

Key Highlights

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