MLPI vs VXUS
MLPI vs VXUS
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $813M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.49% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +4.73% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.20% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 111.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -81.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | NEOS | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 18, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MLPI vs VXUS Performance
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income ETF (MLPI) is a ETF from NEOS and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPI returned +6.20% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MLPI is up 4.73% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 111.3% 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 -81.4% for MLPI 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 0.18. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPI charges 0.68% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $5 annually, a gap of $63 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPI currently yields 8.49% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MLPI and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7882 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPI or VXUS?
MLPI has an expense ratio of 0.68% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $63 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPI or VXUS?
Over the past year MLPI returned +6.20% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), MLPI annualized +8.30% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPI or VXUS?
MLPI has been the more volatile fund at 111.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MLPI -81.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MLPI and VXUS?
MLPI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.18, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPI and VXUS?
MLPI and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7882 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPI or VXUS?
MLPI yields 8.49% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MLPI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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