MLPA vs VOO
Global X MLP ETF vs Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
VOO has a lower expense ratio. MLPA delivered stronger 1-year returns. VOO offers more diversification with 509 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPA | VOO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $997.4B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 1.08% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 509 | |
| YTD Return | +22.52% | +12.25% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.10% | +20.92% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +21.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.95% | +13.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 14.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -34.3% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | Sep 7, 2010 |
MLPA vs VOO Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPA returned +23.10% while VOO returned +20.92%. Year to date, MLPA is up 22.52% versus a gain of 12.25% for VOO.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +17.83% per year against +21.79% for VOO; over five years the annualized figures are +19.95% and +13.05% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VOO has the edge at +13.45% annualized vs -0.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.3% compared with 14.1% for VOO. 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 -34.3% for VOO. 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
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while VOO charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $3 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPA currently yields 6.96% against 1.08% for VOO.
Holdings Overlap
MLPA and VOO share 1 holdings out of 524 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MLPA | Weight in VOO | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| OKE | 0.00% | 0.08% | 0.08% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPA or VOO?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VOO charges 0.03%. VOO is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or VOO?
Over the past year MLPA returned +23.10% vs +20.92% for VOO, so MLPA leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.34% vs +13.45% for VOO. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or VOO?
MLPA has been the more volatile fund at 26.3% annualized versus 14.1% for VOO. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs VOO -34.3%.
Should I hold both MLPA and VOO?
MLPA and VOO 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 MLPA and VOO?
MLPA and VOO share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 524 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or VOO?
MLPA yields 6.96% while VOO yields 1.08%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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