AMLP vs VYM
Alerian MLP ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AMLP | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.01% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $12.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.76% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +19.17% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.22% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.61% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.24% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -85.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 25, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AMLP vs VYM Performance
Alerian MLP ETF (AMLP) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AMLP returned +19.22% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, AMLP is up 19.17% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, AMLP compounded at +18.61% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +19.24% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.11% 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 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AMLP charges 1.01% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $101 vs $4 annually, a gap of $97 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AMLP currently yields 7.76% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AMLP and VYM share 0 holdings out of 572 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 VYM?
AMLP has an expense ratio of 1.01% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $97 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AMLP or VYM?
Over the past year AMLP returned +19.22% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), AMLP annualized +0.78% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AMLP or VYM?
AMLP has been the more volatile fund at 25.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AMLP -85.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AMLP and VYM?
AMLP and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AMLP and VYM?
AMLP and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 572 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AMLP or VYM?
AMLP yields 7.76% while VYM yields 2.86%, so AMLP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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