: For most retail investors, you cannot exchange your shares for actual gold bars. You are investing in the price movement, not the physical metal in your hand.

: If you don't have one, choose a platform that offers commission-free ETF trading.

: Gold often has a low correlation with stocks and bonds, potentially reducing overall portfolio risk during downturns. Critical Considerations Before Buying

: Like all ETFs, GLD charges an annual fee (currently around 0.40%) to cover storage and management.