MLPA vs VYM
Global X MLP ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. MLPA delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +22.48% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.56% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.16% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MLPA vs VYM Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPA returned +23.56% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, MLPA is up 22.48% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +17.83% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +20.16% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs -0.35%. 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 14.6% 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 -86.2% for MLPA 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
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $4 annually, a gap of $73 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPA currently yields 6.96% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MLPA and VYM share 1 holdings out of 622 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 VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| OKE | 0.00% | 0.23% | 0.23% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPA or VYM?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $73 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or VYM?
Over the past year MLPA returned +23.56% vs +23.48% for VYM, so MLPA leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.35% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or VYM?
MLPA has been the more volatile fund at 26.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MLPA and VYM?
MLPA 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 MLPA and VYM?
MLPA and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 622 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or VYM?
MLPA yields 6.96% while VYM yields 2.24%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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