DGRO vs IAU
iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF vs iShares Gold Trust
Last updated: 2026-04-02
iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (DGRO) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to U.S. dividend-paying stocks selected for yield or dividend growth. It charges a low expense ratio of 0.08%. The fund offers a moderate dividend yield of 2.10%. Launched in 2014, the fund has a 12-year track record.
iShares Gold Trust (IAU) is an exchange-traded fund issued by iShares that provides exposure to gold securities. It charges a moderate expense ratio of 0.25%. Launched in 2005, the fund has a 21-year track record.
Quick Verdict
DGRO is significantly cheaper at 0.08% vs 0.25% expense ratio, saving you approximately $335 per $10,000 invested over 10 years. Over the past year, IAU has significantly outperformed with a 52.4% return vs 13.9%. Income investors may prefer DGRO for its higher yield (2.1% vs 0.0%).
Key Metrics
Performance Chart
Indexed to 100 at start (5-year comparison)
Performance Comparison
Fee Impact Over Time
Estimated fee cost difference assuming 8% annual returns
Risk Metrics
Based on 5 years of daily returns
Dividend Comparison
Top Holdings
DGRO Top Holdings
| Name | Weight |
|---|---|
| Exxon Mobil CorporationXOM | 3.43% |
| Johnson & JohnsonJNJ | 2.94% |
| JPMorgan Chase & Co.JPM | 2.93% |
| Apple Inc.AAPL | 2.87% |
| Microsoft CorporationMSFT | 2.71% |
| AbbVie Inc.ABBV | 2.67% |
| Broadcom Inc.AVGO | 2.49% |
| The Procter & Gamble CompanyPG | 2.14% |
| Philip Morris International Inc.PM | 2.05% |
| Merck & Co., Inc.MRK | 2.05% |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose DGRO if...
you want the lowest fees and plan to buy and hold long-term. Over decades, the expense ratio difference compounds significantly.
Choose IAU if...
recent performance momentum matters to your strategy. Note that past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Choose DGRO if...
you prioritize dividend income and want higher regular distributions from your portfolio.