AMLP vs VTI
Alerian MLP ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AMLP | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.01% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $12.8B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.76% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.17% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.22% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.61% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.24% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.4% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -85.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 25, 2010 | May 24, 2001 |
AMLP vs VTI Performance
Alerian MLP ETF (AMLP) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AMLP returned +19.22% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, AMLP is up 19.17% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, AMLP compounded at +18.61% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +19.24% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +0.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AMLP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 25.4% compared with 15.4% for VTI. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -85.4% for AMLP and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AMLP charges 1.01% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $101 vs $3 annually, a gap of $98 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AMLP currently yields 7.76% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
AMLP and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2797 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AMLP or VTI?
AMLP has an expense ratio of 1.01% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $98 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AMLP or VTI?
Over the past year AMLP returned +19.22% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), AMLP annualized +0.78% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AMLP or VTI?
AMLP has been the more volatile fund at 25.4% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: AMLP -85.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both AMLP and VTI?
AMLP and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AMLP and VTI?
AMLP and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2797 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AMLP or VTI?
AMLP yields 7.76% while VTI yields 1.07%, so AMLP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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