ERX VS AMLP
5 min read
By Ron Koren, ETF Insider

ERX VS AMLP

When it comes to energy investments in the financial landscape, two funds often surface in discussions: ERX and AMLP. Both target the energy sector but offer investors different strategies and exposures. This article dives deep into the comparison between the two, ensuring that investors are well-informed before making a decision.

ERX VS AMLP: Sectors and Top Holdings

ERX, or the Direxion Daily Energy Bull 3x Shares ETF, seeks to achieve daily investment results equivalent to 300% of the performance of the Energy Select Sector Index. This essentially means that the fund tries to magnify its returns by using financial instruments, making it more suited for investors with a higher risk appetite. On the other hand, AMLP, the ALPS Alerian MLP ETF, tracks the Alerian MLP Infrastructure Index, which consists of energy infrastructure Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs). These MLPs typically deal with the transportation, storage, and processing of energy commodities. As for their top holdings, ERX is predominantly invested in large-cap energy companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips. These companies represent a significant part of the global energy market and are well-established in the industry.
AMLP, in contrast, has top holdings that include companies like Enterprise Products Partners, Energy Transfer, and Magellan Midstream Partners. These are infrastructure-focused entities that earn through fees and tolls rather than the actual sale of energy commodities.

ERX overlap ERX VS AMLPERX overlap ERX VS AMLP

ERX VS AMLP: Capitalization Strategy

The capitalization strategies of ERX and AMLP differ vastly, primarily due to their underlying assets and investment goals. ERX employs a leveraged capitalization strategy. By aiming for 300% of the daily performance of its benchmark index, it utilizes financial derivatives like futures contracts. This kind of strategy allows for higher potential gains but also comes with heightened risks, making it vital for investors to monitor their positions regularly.
AMLP, meanwhile, focuses on MLPs, which are typically mid-cap entities. This means that while they might not have the vast capital backing of large-cap companies, they do offer stable cash flows and often attractive dividend yields. Their business model, based on fixed-fee contracts, reduces the direct impact of volatile commodity prices on their revenue.

ERX VS AMLP: Tracking and Exposure

When it comes to tracking and exposure, both ERX and AMLP are tied to the broader energy sector but offer different risk and reward profiles. ERX, with its leveraged strategy, provides amplified exposure to the daily movements of the Energy Select Sector Index. It's essential to note that while the potential for gains is higher, the losses can also be significant. Investors seeking short-term opportunities might find ERX appealing, but they must be prepared for its inherent risks. AMLP, on the other hand, offers exposure to the infrastructure side of the energy market. With its focus on MLPs, investors get a piece of the stable and predictable cash flows these entities provide. Additionally, as MLPs are required to distribute most of their income to shareholders, AMLP often boasts a higher yield, making it a potential option for income-seeking investors.

Conclusion

Choosing between ERX and AMLP boils down to an investor's risk tolerance, investment horizon, and income needs. ERX, with its leveraged strategy, is better suited for those willing to take on higher risk for potential short-term gains. AMLP, with its focus on energy infrastructure MLPs, provides a more predictable income stream, albeit with exposure to the intricacies of the MLP structure. Before diving into any investment, thorough research and understanding are imperative. With the energy sector's dynamic nature, staying updated with market trends and individual fund performances is crucial.

Sources:

  1. Direxion Daily Energy Bull 3x Shares ETF website.
  2. ALPS Alerian MLP ETF website.
  3. "Master Limited Partnerships: An Overview" - Investopedia.
  4. Energy Select Sector Index official documentation.

ERX ETF issuer
ERX ETF official page

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