MLPI vs VTI
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $813M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.49% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +7.58% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.09% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 111.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -81.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | NEOS | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 18, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
MLPI vs VTI Performance
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income ETF (MLPI) is a ETF from NEOS and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPI returned +9.09% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, MLPI is up 7.58% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 111.3% 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 -81.4% for MLPI 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 0.13. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPI charges 0.68% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $3 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPI currently yields 8.49% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MLPI and VTI share 9 holdings out of 2798 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPI or VTI?
MLPI has an expense ratio of 0.68% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPI or VTI?
Over the past year MLPI returned +9.09% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), MLPI annualized +8.47% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPI or VTI?
MLPI has been the more volatile fund at 111.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MLPI -81.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MLPI and VTI?
MLPI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.13, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPI and VTI?
MLPI and VTI share 9 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2798 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPI or VTI?
MLPI yields 8.49% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MLPI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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