The average returns given by gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the last one, three and five years were 29.12%, 16.93% and 13.59%, respectively, as per the Financial Express. In comparison, physical gold gave an average return of 30.13%, 18.03% and 14.88% during similar periods. The report further said LIC MF Gold ETF gave the maximum returns among other gold ETFs.