MLPA vs VXUS
Global X MLP ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.39% | +13.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.25% | +24.30% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.14% | +20.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.89% | +9.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MLPA vs VXUS Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPA returned +24.25% while VXUS returned +24.30%. Year to date, MLPA is up 23.39% versus a gain of 13.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +18.14% per year against +20.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +19.89% and +9.37% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.79% annualized vs -0.30%. 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 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -39.9% for VXUS. 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $5 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPA currently yields 6.96% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MLPA and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7889 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 VXUS?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or VXUS?
Over the past year MLPA returned +24.25% vs +24.30% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.30% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or VXUS?
MLPA has been the more volatile fund at 26.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MLPA and VXUS?
MLPA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPA and VXUS?
MLPA and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or VXUS?
MLPA yields 6.96% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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