MLPX vs QQQ
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1
Quick Verdict
QQQ has a lower expense ratio. MLPX delivered stronger 1-year returns. QQQ offers more diversification with 103 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPX | QQQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.18% | |
| AUM | $3.6B | $455.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.13% | 0.41% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 108 | |
| YTD Return | +24.17% | +18.31% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.97% | +25.37% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.87% | +25.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +22.35% | +15.20% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 30.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.5% | -83.0% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Invesco (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 6, 2013 | Mar 10, 1999 |
MLPX vs QQQ Performance
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF (MLPX) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (QQQ) is a ETF from Invesco (US). Over the past year MLPX returned +27.97% while QQQ returned +25.37%. Year to date, MLPX is up 24.17% versus a gain of 18.31% for QQQ.
Over three years, MLPX compounded at +25.87% per year against +25.79% for QQQ; over five years the annualized figures are +22.35% and +15.20% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, QQQ has the edge at +13.10% annualized vs +6.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QQQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.6% compared with 24.7% for MLPX. 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 -77.5% for MLPX and -83.0% for QQQ. 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPX charges 0.45% per year while QQQ charges 0.18%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $18 annually, a gap of $27 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPX currently yields 4.13% against 0.41% for QQQ.
Holdings Overlap
MLPX and QQQ share 0 holdings out of 131 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, MLPX or QQQ?
MLPX has an expense ratio of 0.45% while QQQ charges 0.18%. QQQ is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $27 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPX or QQQ?
Over the past year MLPX returned +27.97% vs +25.37% for QQQ, so MLPX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), MLPX annualized +6.18% vs +13.10% for QQQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPX or QQQ?
QQQ has been the more volatile fund at 30.6% annualized versus 24.7% for MLPX. Worst drawdown: MLPX -77.5% vs QQQ -83.0%.
Should I hold both MLPX and QQQ?
MLPX and QQQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPX and QQQ?
MLPX and QQQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 131 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPX or QQQ?
MLPX yields 4.13% while QQQ yields 0.41%, so MLPX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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