Gold vs. Bitcoin: Navigating the Bull Market

Both gold and Bitcoin have reached all-time highs in 2025, presenting investors with a dilemma: which asset, if either, is the better investment?

This article examines the pros and cons of investing in each, drawing on insights from a recent Zacks Market Edge Podcast.

Bitcoin: The Digital Gold Rush

The iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) offers a straightforward way to invest in Bitcoin without directly purchasing the cryptocurrency.

• Launched in January 2024, IBIT has attracted $70 billion by May 2025.
• IBIT is up 139% since its launch, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 (up 24% in the same period).
• The ETF's sponsor fee is 0.25%.

However, keep in mind Bitcoin's volatility can be substantial.

Gold: The Traditional Safe Haven

The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) is a leading gold ETF, backed by physical gold.

• GLD has $97 billion in assets.
• Launched in 2004.
• GLD is up 60% over the last year, exceeding the S&P 500's 24% gain.
• Year-to-date, GLD is up 23.8%, outperforming Bitcoin.
• Expense ratio is 0.4%.

The Gold MiniShares Trust (GLDM) offers a lower expense ratio (0.1%) and is another option for gold exposure.

Key Takeaways:

• Bitcoin (IBIT): Higher growth potential but comes with increased risk and volatility. Lower expense ratio.
• Gold (GLD/GLDM): A more established and potentially less volatile asset. Higher expense ratio (GLD) or a slightly less liquid fund (GLDM).
• Both assets have outperformed the S&P 500 recently, indicating their strength in the current market environment.

Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and investment goals before allocating capital to either Bitcoin or gold.