Last year brought another record-setting avalanche of new ETF launches. Some of those rookie ETFs got off to impressive starts while the jury is still out on others. Still others are likely destined for the ETF graveyard. Those points are reminders that good timing is crucial when bringing a new ETF to market. Some infant ETFs benefit from that catalyst while others don’t. One that clearly did in 2025 is the NEOS Gold High Income ETF (IAUI). IAUI, which debuted in June, marries two of last year’s prominent themes: surging gold prices and investors’ affinity for high income sourced outside of bonds and dividend stocks.
As for IAUI’s success, the proof is in the pudding. The new ETF enters 2026 with nearly $276 million in assets under management — an impressive start to be sure. Of course, advisors and investors considering the NEOS ETF are right to demand more than flashy statistics. That “more” includes what can this fund do in 2026. It’s possible the answer will be positive.
IAUI Can Thrive in 2026
Bullion was one of 2025’s best-performing assets. Asking for the commodity to repeat that feat this year may be a tall order, but that doesn’t mean it won’t generate upside. In fact, the stars may be aligning for another year of stout returns for gold.
“Looking to 2026, the outlook is shaped by ongoing geoeconomic uncertainty. The gold price broadly reflects macroeconomic consensus expectations and may remain rangebound if current conditions persist. However, taking cues from this year, 2026 will likely continue to surprise,” noted the World Gold Council (WGC). “If economic growth slows and interest rates fall further, gold could see moderate gains. In a more severe downturn marked by rising global risks, gold could perform strongly. Conversely, a successful outcome from policies set by the Trump administration would accelerate economic growth and reduce geopolitical risk, leading to higher rates and a stronger US dollar, pushing gold lower.”
As it relates to IAUI, gold’s potential for strong returns in 2026 is pertinent. Unlike so many options-based ETFs that offer big yields but trade lower over time, IAUI is already showing a knack for some upside capture. It’s returned more than 14% since its debut.
In other words, investors aren’t signing up for an ETF that simply returns their money to them with a management fee. That’s good news because other factors could portend an extension of bullion’s rally this year.
“Additional factors, such as central bank demand and gold recycling trends, could also influence the market. Most importantly, gold’s role as a portfolio diversifier and source of stability remains key amid continued market volatility,” concluded the WGC.
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