SGOL, like other physically backed gold ETFs, aims to provide an efficient way for investors to obtain gold exposure. The fund is structured as a grantor trust preventing trustees from lending the underlying gold. SGOL has changed since Aberdeen purchased the fund on April 27, 2018 from ETF Securities. Following the acquisition, Aberdeen expanded its custody arrangements. Now SGOL's Trust assets are custodied by JPMorgan, vaulting in Zurich and London. On June 21, 2019, SGOL changed its name from Aberdeen Standard Physical Swiss Gold Shares ETF to Aberdeen Standard Physical Gold Shares. On November 4, 2019 the shares were split 10 for 1, reducing the handle. SGOL shares currently trade at 1/100th of the spot price for gold, which appeals to investors wishing to place small orders.
