Gold ETF GLD hits $1.2T assets after 36% gain; future depends on Fed rate cuts and real yields.

The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) has grown to $1.2 trillion in assets following a 36% rise over the past year, driven by central bank buying and Fed easing. However, recent gains have stalled, with performance flat over the last month. The key factor for GLD's future is the path of real interest rates, influenced by Fed rate decisions and inflation trends. If the Fed cuts rates again, GLD could rise further; if inflation remains high and the Fed pauses or hikes rates, GLD may decline. Additionally, GLD's higher 0.40% fee compared to lower-cost alternatives like GLDM may influence long-term investor choices.