VanEck Merk Gold ETF(NYSEMKT) OUNZ

VanEck Merk Gold Trust lets investors buy shares backed by real gold. Investors can exchange shares for physical gold bars or coins. This helps people who want direct gold exposure without storing gold themselves.

Gold, Unboxed: What’s on Offer?

Gold-backed shares: Each share represents a portion of physical gold held in secure vaults.

Physical redemption: Investors can swap shares for gold bars or coins, subject to minimums and fees.

Single-segment focus: 100% of assets are invested in gold bullion; no other products or services.

Exchange-traded access: Shares trade on the NYSE Arca, making gold investment accessible to a wide audience.

Growth Spurts and Shiny New Moves

Launched in 2014, offering gold-backed shares to public investors.

The gold pricing index was switched to the Solactive Gold Spot Index on August 7, 2023.

Updated share settlement cycle to T+1 in May 2024, matching industry standards.

Van Eck Securities Corporation has provided ongoing marketing support since October 22, 2015.

Why OUNZ Isn’t Just Another Gold Fund

VanEck Merk Gold Trust stands out by letting investors redeem shares for physical gold, a rare feature among gold funds. The trust’s structure keeps costs low and tracks gold prices closely. Its single focus on physical gold means performance is tied directly to gold’s market value.

Five Things You Need to Know

Net assets rose 26.44% to $1.66 billion from January 31, 2025 to April 30, 2025.

Gold holdings grew to 504,597 ounces by April 2025, up from 469,450 in January.

The sponsor’s fee was $893,967 for Q1 FY2025, compared to $516,393 for Q1 FY2024, a 73% increase.

Total return at NAV reached 17.59% for Q1 FY2025.

Bottom Line

VanEck Merk Gold Trust offers a simple way to invest in physical gold through exchange-traded shares. Its unique redemption feature and low-cost structure set it apart, though high minimum fees may make redemption impractical for smaller quantities.