MLPA vs QQQ
Global X MLP ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. QQQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 108 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPA | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $496.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 0.44% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +22.35% | +16.64% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.68% | +27.27% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.77% | +25.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.60% | +14.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | Mar 10, 1999 |
MLPA vs QQQ Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year MLPA returned +22.68% while QQQ returned +27.27%. Year to date, MLPA is up 22.35% versus a gain of 16.64% for QQQ.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +17.77% per year against +25.96% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +19.60% and +14.54% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.03% annualized vs -0.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 26.3% for MLPA. 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 -86.2% for MLPA and -83.0% for QQQ. 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 0.41. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $18 annually, a gap of $59 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPA currently yields 6.96% against 0.44% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
MLPA and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 122 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, MLPA or QQQ?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $59 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or QQQ?
Over the past year MLPA returned +22.68% vs +27.27% for QQQ, so QQQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.35% vs +13.03% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 26.3% for MLPA. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both MLPA and QQQ?
MLPA and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.41, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPA and QQQ?
MLPA and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 122 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or QQQ?
MLPA yields 6.96% while QQQ yields 0.44%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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