abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF

PPLT

Market cap $3.36B

SIL saw a much stronger one-year return and deeper drawdown than PPLT, with both funds highly volatile. PPLT is slightly less expensive to own and shows a lower beta versus the S&P 500.

The abrdn Platinum ETF Trust (NYSEARCA:PPLT) has surged 185% over the past year, transforming platinum from an overlooked industrial metal into a standout commodity performer.

GDX and PPLT both posted triple-digit one-year returns, but they diverge sharply in terms of precious metal exposure and risk profile. PPLT offers no dividends, while GDX pays an annual dividend.

PPLT carries a higher expense ratio and is much smaller in assets under management than GLD. Over the past year, PPLT's total return more than doubled GLD's, but with a much steeper five-year drawdown.

PPLT has delivered a much higher one-year return than AAAU but with a steeper five-year drawdown. AAAU is notably less expensive to hold, with a lower expense ratio.

SLV delivered a notably higher one-year return than PPLT but with a steeper five-year drawdown. PPLT exhibits lower volatility and beta, suggesting less sensitivity to broad equity swings.

SIVR has a lower expense ratio and larger assets under management than PPLT. PPLT's five-year drawdown was milder, but SIVR delivered stronger five-year growth of $1,000.

SLVP posted a higher one-year return and deeper drawdown than PPLT. PPLT tracks the price of platinum directly, while SLVP holds a basket of global silver and base metals miners.

PPLT charges a higher expense ratio than IAU and manages much smaller assets under management (AUM). PPLT delivered a higher one-year return and experienced a shallower five-year drawdown than IAU.

Platinum started the year with a bang, building on its record run in 2025 that delivered a return of over 125%, second only to silver among precious metals. One of earth's rarest metals, platinum's unique physical properties make it indispensable for cutting emissions, powering fuel cells, and supporting critical industrial technologies. Platinum is also benefiting from the rotation to precious metals and safe-haven investments, as investors look to diversify amid market volatility, geopolitical risk, dollar depreciation, and easing interest rates.