MLPX vs VYM
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. MLPX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MLPX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.13% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +22.90% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.72% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.05% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +22.34% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -77.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 6, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MLPX vs VYM Performance
Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF (MLPX) 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 MLPX returned +26.72% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, MLPX is up 22.90% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, MLPX compounded at +25.05% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +22.34% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +6.10%. 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 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 -77.5% for MLPX 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPX charges 0.45% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $4 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPX currently yields 4.13% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MLPX and VYM share 7 holdings out of 579 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPX or VYM?
MLPX has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPX or VYM?
Over the past year MLPX returned +26.72% vs +25.99% for VYM, so MLPX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), MLPX annualized +6.10% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPX or VYM?
MLPX has been the more volatile fund at 24.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MLPX -77.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MLPX and VYM?
MLPX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPX and VYM?
MLPX and VYM share 7 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 579 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPX or VYM?
MLPX yields 4.13% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MLPX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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