ETFs focused on the basic materials sector, primarily gold mining, exceeded investor expectations in 2025. During times of global economic uncertainty, gold became a safe haven and funds tied to this metal achieved exceptional returns. We bring you an overview of the most profitable funds of this year according to the JustETF ranking.
ETFs That Profited from the Gold Rush
- L&G Gold Mining UCITS ETF (+48%): This fund invests in leading global gold mining companies. It tracks the DAXglobal Gold Miners index and offers diversified exposure to companies operating in gold. It is suitable for investors seeking an alternative to direct gold holding with higher growth potential.
- UBS Solactive Global Pure Gold Miners UCITS ETF USD (+48%): Focuses exclusively on “pure” gold mining companies that derive the majority of their revenue from gold. It tracks the Solactive Global Pure Gold Miners index. The fund is denominated in dollars and provides concentrated exposure to companies specialized in gold mining without secondary commodities.
- HANetf AuAg ESG Gold Mining UCITS ETF (+46%): Combines gold mining companies with strict ESG criteria. It invests only in companies that meet environmental and social standards. The fund provides a sustainable alternative for investors who want gold but also responsible investing. It tracks the Solactive AuAg ESG Gold Mining index.
- VanEck Junior Gold Miners UCITS (+46%): This fund focuses on smaller gold mining companies with growth potential. It tracks the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners index. It is suitable for dynamic investors who want to profit from gold price movements through smaller, often riskier companies with potential for higher returns.
Why Gold Attracts Investors in 2025?
While gold itself rose in price by 27% in 2025, the most profitable ETF funds achieved almost double that growth.
Interestingly, funds focused exclusively on gold outperformed even broader basic materials stock indices, such as industrial metals or the chemical industry.
Gold was one of the few assets in 2025 that maintained a positive outlook throughout the entire year. Funds focused on gold miners thus fulfilled the function of risk protection while simultaneously bringing high returns.