MLPX vs VTI
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MLPX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $3.6B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.04% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +28.91% | +12.23% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.36% | +20.11% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +27.31% | +20.52% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +23.68% | +11.49% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 6, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
MLPX vs VTI Performance
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF (MLPX) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MLPX returned +31.36% while VTI returned +20.11%. Year to date, MLPX is up 28.91% versus a gain of 12.23% for VTI.
Over three years, MLPX compounded at +27.31% per year against +20.52% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +23.68% and +11.49% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.04% annualized vs +6.46%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.7% 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 -77.5% for MLPX 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPX charges 0.45% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPX currently yields 4.04% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MLPX and VTI share 12 holdings out of 2804 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, MLPX or VTI?
MLPX has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPX or VTI?
Over the past year MLPX returned +31.36% vs +20.11% for VTI, so MLPX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), MLPX annualized +6.46% vs +8.04% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPX or VTI?
MLPX has been the more volatile fund at 24.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MLPX -77.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MLPX and VTI?
MLPX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPX and VTI?
MLPX and VTI share 12 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPX or VTI?
MLPX yields 4.04% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MLPX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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