Best Gold ETFs To Buy In Canada For 2026

In 2026, the gold price remains well supported by uncertainty, constantly reaching new highs. As the price of gold continued to climb, investors began to track popular gold ETFs, resulting in large sums of money flowing into them.

Given these favourable circumstances, gold ETFs are expected to generate considerable returns worldwide, including in Canada. So, what are gold ETFs? Which are the best gold ETFs in Canada for 2026? In this article, we will analyse the best gold ETFs in Canada for 2026.

Table of Contents

• Best Gold ETFs in Canada for 2026
• What are Gold ETFs?
• Types of Gold ETFs
• Pros and Cons of Investing in Gold ETFs
• Canadian Gold ETFs Trends in 2026
• How to Invest in Gold ETFs in Canada?
• Conclusion
• How to Trade Tokenized GOLDUSDT Futures?
• Why Choose BTCC

＼Unlock Up To 30,000 USDT In Welcome Rewards!／

Best Gold ETFs in Canada for 2026

Based on BTCC’s analysis and research, the top three gold ETFs to invest in Canada for 2026 are listed below.

SPDR Gold Shares (GLD)

SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) is one of the largest and most prominent gold ETFs globally, offering direct exposure to gold bullion prices. Managed by State Street Global Advisors, GLD provides a convenient and liquid way for investors to gain exposure to gold without the complexities of physical ownership, such as storage and security.

Key Features of SPDR Gold Shares (GLD):

• Liquidity: GLD is among the most liquid gold ETFs, making it a preferred choice for traders and investors alike.
• Performance Alignment: Its value tracks international gold prices closely, ensuring investors benefit directly from gold’s price movements.
• Accessibility: GLD trades on major stock exchanges, offering ease of buying and selling.
• Transparency: The fund’s holdings are backed by physical gold stored in secure vaults, ensuring investor confidence in its asset base.

SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) is undoubtedly one of the best gold ETFs available for Canadian investors in 2026, offering robust market presence, liquidity, and alignment with international gold prices. However, evaluating personal investment strategies and comparing GLD with local ETF options will ensure the best fit for your portfolio.

iShares Gold Trust (IAU)

The iShares Gold Trust (IAU) is a prominent gold ETF designed to provide investment returns closely aligned with the price of gold. Managed by iShares (a division of BlackRock), IAU offers an accessible, cost-efficient, and secure way to invest in gold without the need for physical ownership.

Key Features of iShares Gold Trust (IAU):

• Cost Efficiency: IAU is renowned for its low expense ratio compared to other gold ETFs, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious investors.
• Transparency: The ETF’s holdings are backed by allocated gold bullion stored in secure vaults, ensuring that each share represents a fractional interest in physical gold.
• Liquidity: IAU is highly liquid, enabling investors to buy or sell shares seamlessly on major exchanges.
• Portfolio Diversification: IAU provides an opportunity to diversify portfolios with gold exposure, a proven hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties.

IAU stands out as a cost-effective and reliable choice for Canadian investors looking for direct exposure to gold prices. As gold prices remain strong, IAU provides a compelling opportunity to capitalize on this enduring precious metal. However, it is worth noting that as a pure gold ETF, IAU doesn’t provide dividend income, limiting its appeal for income-focused investors.

iShares S&P/TSX Global Gold Index ETF (XGD)

The iShares S&P/TSX Global Gold Index ETF (XGD) is a gold-focused exchange-traded fund designed to provide exposure to the performance of global gold-mining companies. Managed by BlackRock, XGD replicates the performance of the S&P/TSX Global Gold Index, making it an attractive choice for investors seeking diversification in the gold sector.

Key Features of iShares S&P/TSX Global Gold Index ETF (XGD):

• Focus on Gold Producers: XGD invests in leading gold-mining companies, such as Barrick Gold, Newmont Corporation, and Franco-Nevada. These firms represent a significant portion of global gold production.
• Global Exposure: Although listed in Canada, the fund provides investors with access to a geographically diverse array of gold-mining stocks, enhancing portfolio diversification.
• Strong Liquidity: As one of Canada’s most popular gold ETFs, XGD boasts significant liquidity, making it easy to trade without large price impacts.
• Distribution Yields: The fund provides modest dividend distributions, typically paid quarterly, offering additional income potential beyond capital appreciation.

XGD offers a unique opportunity for Canadian investors seeking exposure to the gold-mining sector. It combines global diversification with the convenience of a locally traded ETF, making it appealing for those looking to benefit from both gold price movements and mining company performance. Its focus on established gold producers, combined with ease of trading on domestic exchanges, positions it as a strong contender among Canada’s gold ETFs in 2026. However, due to its volatility and indirect exposure to gold prices, it may not be the best choice for risk-averse or long-term investors seeking stability.

What are Gold ETFs?

Gold ETFs (exchange-traded funds) are investment funds traded on stock exchanges that track the performance of gold-related indices. These may include indices tied to gold prices, gold mining companies, or gold futures. Gold ETFs allow investors to gain exposure to gold without the need to physically purchase, store, or sell the metal.

Key features of gold ETFs include:

• Accessibility: Investors can easily trade gold ETFs through standard securities trading systems.
• No Physical Ownership: Gold ETFs provide proportional stakes in the fund, eliminating the need for physical storage or delivery.
• Low Risk: Gold ETFs are considered a low-risk investment due to their simplicity and low transaction costs.
• Convenience: They offer liquidity and are easy to trade, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned investors.

BTCC now supports Tokenized Gold Futures trading with a leverage up to 150Χ, users who are interested in gold trading currently can use USDT to trade gold commodity on BTCC without opening an account with other traditional exchanges. Click the button below to buy gold⇓

[TRADE_PLUGIN]GOLDUSDT,GOLDUSDT[/TRADE_PLUGIN]

Types of Gold ETFs

Gold ETFs come in various forms, each catering to specific investment strategies:

1. Gold Price ETFs

Gold price ETFs track the price of gold bars or gold futures. These funds aim to mirror gold’s spot price, offering a straightforward way to profit from gold price movements. Some track international gold prices, while others focus on specific regions or countries. Investors should monitor gold price trends closely when trading these ETFs.

2. Gold Miners ETFs

These ETFs invest in stocks of gold-mining companies. While they correlate with gold prices, their performance is also influenced by individual company operations and strategies. Gold miners ETFs tend to have higher volatility, making them more suitable for short-term trading rather than long-term holding.

3. Inverse Gold ETFs

Inverse gold ETFs provide returns opposite to gold price movements, often using leverage. These are ideal for investors aiming to profit from declining gold prices but come with amplified risks and require careful management.

4. Leveraged Gold ETFs

Leveraged gold ETFs magnify gold price movements, offering higher potential gains (or losses). For example, a 2x leveraged ETF would gain 2% if gold prices rise by 1%. These funds are best suited for experienced investors with a high-risk tolerance.

[TRADE_PLUGIN]GOLDUSDT,GOLDUSDT[/TRADE_PLUGIN]

＼Unlock Up To 30,000 USDT In Welcome Rewards!／

Pros and Cons of Investing in Gold ETFs

With the surge of gold prices, a large number of investors poured into the gold ETF market, so what are the benefits of investing in gold ETFs? What about the limitations of investing in gold ETFs.

[TRADE_PLUGIN]GOLDUSDT,GOLDUSDT[/TRADE_PLUGIN]

Canadian Gold ETFs Trends in 2026

As 2026 unfolds, Canadian Gold ETFs continue to play a central role in the commodities investment landscape. Several emerging trends are shaping how investors view and leverage these funds, reflecting both traditional investment strategies and evolving market dynamics.

1. Growing Emphasis on ESG and Sustainability

Investor demand for gold ETFs that meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards is on the rise. Many are becoming more attentive to the environmental impact of mining operations and the social responsibilities of companies in the sector. Canadian Gold ETFs that demonstrate transparent ESG practices and responsible sourcing are increasingly attracting socially conscious investors.

2. Inflation Hedge Appeal

With ongoing global economic uncertainty and persistent inflationary pressures, gold remains a key hedge against eroding purchasing power. Canadian investors are turning to gold ETFs as a safeguard for their portfolios, reinforcing the perception of gold as a safe-haven asset. This trend is expected to maintain strong momentum throughout 2026.

3. Technological Advancements in ETF Access

Innovation in financial technology has made trading and managing ETFs more seamless and efficient. Enhanced digital platforms now provide investors with better tools to track gold ETF performance, analyze market conditions, and optimize their strategies. These improvements are contributing to broader accessibility and smarter decision-making.

4. Portfolio Diversification Strategies

Canadian Gold ETFs are increasingly being used as a diversification tool. Since gold often moves independently of equities and bonds—especially during periods of volatility—investors see gold ETFs as a way to balance risks and stabilize long-term portfolio performance.

5. Response to Market Volatility

Geopolitical tensions, fluctuating interest rates, and macroeconomic shifts are expected to bring turbulence in 2026. In such environments, gold’s reputation as a defensive asset strengthens. Canadian Gold ETFs are positioned to benefit as investors seek stability during uncertain market cycles.

6. Rising Retail Participation

Accessibility is broadening the appeal of gold ETFs, with more retail investors entering the space. Lower barriers to entry and user-friendly platforms have democratized access, boosting both liquidity and trading volume in Canadian Gold ETFs. This increased retail involvement is reshaping market participation patterns.

The Canadian Gold ETF market in 2026 reflects a blend of traditional investment motives—such as hedging and diversification—alongside newer priorities like ESG-focused strategies. With heightened accessibility, advancing technology, and an uncertain economic backdrop, these ETFs are set to remain a dynamic component of modern portfolios. As the year progresses, investors should watch these trends closely to identify both opportunities and risks in the evolving gold investment landscape.

[TRADE_PLUGIN]GOLDUSDT,GOLDUSDT[/TRADE_PLUGIN]

＼Unlock Up To 30,000 USDT In Welcome Rewards!／

How to Invest in Gold ETFs in Canada?

In Canada, it is easy and simple to invest in gold ETFs. Here’s how to buy shares in a gold ETF:

Step 1: Research ETFs

Use your broker’s platform to identify gold ETFs that align with your goals.

Step 2: Analyze Key Metrics

Evaluate the ETF’s historical performance, expense ratio, and alignment with gold price trends.

Step 3: Execute the Purchase

Buy shares of your chosen gold ETF through your online broker. Consider dollar-cost averaging to reduce the impact of price volatility.

＼Unlock Up To 30,000 USDT In Welcome Rewards!／

Conclusion

Gold ETFs offer Canadian investors a flexible and efficient way to participate in the gold market without the complexities of owning physical gold. Whether your focus is on bullion, mining stocks, or leveraged opportunities, gold ETFs cater to diverse strategies and risk profiles. As gold prices continue to shine in 2026, investing in the right ETFs could be a golden opportunity to enhance your portfolio.

＼Unlock Up To 30,000 USDT In Welcome Rewards!／

How to Trade Tokenized GOLDUSDT Futures?

BTCC, one of the longest-running crypto exchanges in the world, supports Tokenized Gold Futures trading with a leverage up to 150Χ, users who are interested in gold trading currently can use USDT to trade gold commodity on BTCC without opening an account with other traditional exchanges.

Note: You can deposit and receive up to 30,000 USDT now when you sign up and verify your account on BTCC. Every new user gets a 10 USDT coupon after completing their registration. You will also get an additional 20 USDT coupon on completing your KYC verification.

The following sets forth the detail guidance on how to trade tokenized gold futures on BTCC.

Step 1: Create a BTCC account

Step 2: Complete BTCC’s identity verification

Step 4: Place your tokenized GOLDUSDT futures order

Go back to the BTCC official homepage, choose “Futures” -“USDT-M Perpetual Futures Contract”-“Tokenized Stocks & Commodities”-“GOLDUSDT”.

You can also directly click the button below to enter the gold order page.

[TRADE_PLUGIN]GOLDUSDT,GOLDUSDT[/TRADE_PLUGIN]

Then, choose the contract trading order type. Futures contract orders on BTCC platform include market orders, limit orders and SL/TP orders.

• Market Order: users place orders at the best price in the current market to achieve fast trading.
• Limit Order: Limit orders are a type of order to buy or sell futures at a price more favourable than the market price. When you buy at a price lower than the market price or sell at a price higher than the market price, the order will be in the form of a limit order.
• SL/TP Order: SL/TP orders are a type of order to buy or sell futures at a price less favourable than the market price. When you buy at a price higher than the market price or sell at a price lower than the market price, the order will be in the form of a SL/TP order.

Step Five: adjust the leverage multiple.

Please keep in mind that operating leverage carries the risk of liquidation. Leverage should be adjusted based on your financial status and risk tolerance.

Step Six: choose the lot size and set the SL/TP price .

Step Seven: after setting the basic data information, users can choose to buy (open long) or sell (open short) after entering their ideal price. Traders should remind that the price cannot be higher or lower than the highest buying price or lowest selling price of the platform.

Step Eight: click the buy or sell button, and the tokenized gold  futures contract order is completed.

＼Trade On BTCC With 10 FREE USDT!／

Why Choose BTCC

BTCC is a trusted and well-respected exchange around the world thanks to its unwavering commitment to security and transparency. Since its establishment in 2011, BTCC has boasted an impeccable security track record, with zero reported hacks or breaches. Holding licenses in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, BTCC provides a comprehensive suite of trading features within a secure and regulated platform.

With a mission of providing a trading platform that is fair and reliable in every sense, BTCC platform supports spot trading for over 360 cryptocurrencies, crypto futures trading with leverage up to 500x,  crypto copy trading that allows users to follow experienced traders,  demo trading accounts pre-loaded with $100,000 in virtual funds, and tokenized futures for stocks and commodities. If you want to engage in cryptocurrency trading, you can start by signing up for BTCC.

BTCC Benefits⇓

BTCC offers a sign-up bonus for new users. Register now and start trading to receive your welcome rewards of up to 30,000 USDT. Additionally, VIP members can enjoy more benefits. Please note that your VIP level will increase based on your deposit amount. The more you deposit, the higher your level will be.

BTCC is among the best and safest platforms to trade cryptos in the world. The reasons why we introduce BTCC for you are summarized as below:

• Industry-leading Security With A Zero-hacking Record Since Its Establishment
• High Leverage Of Up To 500x
• High Liquidity & Volume
• Extremely Low Fees
• High and Rich Bonus (up to 30,000 USDT)
• Excellent Customer Service