MLPA vs VTI
Global X MLP ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MLPA delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +22.52% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.10% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.95% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | May 24, 2001 |
MLPA vs VTI Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPA returned +23.10% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, MLPA is up 22.52% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +17.83% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +19.95% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% 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 15.3% 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 -86.2% for MLPA 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while VTI 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 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPA or VTI?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or VTI?
Over the past year MLPA returned +23.10% vs +21.39% for VTI, so MLPA leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.34% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or VTI?
MLPA has been the more volatile fund at 26.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MLPA and VTI?
MLPA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPA and VTI?
MLPA and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2805 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or VTI?
MLPA yields 6.96% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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