How does the MLPA ETF work?
5 min read
By Beqa Bumbeishvili, ETF Insider

How does the MLPA ETF work?

The MLPA ETF or Master Limited Partnership ETF is a lucrative option for investors seeking exposure to the Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs) primarily associated with energy infrastructure. These include assets like pipelines, storage facilities, and other energy resources infrastructure that are essential for the smooth operations of the energy sector. This article will provide an insight into the MLPA ETF, covering its workings, benefits, and considerations to factor in before investing.

MLPA ETF: Overview

The MLPA ETF aims to provide investment results that correspond, before fees and expenses, to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, the Solactive MLP Infrastructure Index. This ETF allows investors to dive into the energy sector without directly involving themselves with the equity of energy companies. Moreover, the MLPA ETF often provides an attractive income return through distributions.

MLPA ETF: Underlying and Exposure: What Does It Track and How?

Primarily, the MLPA ETF tracks the performance of MLPs involved in the transportation, storage, and processing of energy resources. These are crucial components of the North American energy infrastructure. By investing in this ETF, investors indirectly invest in these essential assets through a single fund.

MLPA overlap How does work the MLPA ETF?MLPA overlap How does work the MLPA ETF?

The MLPA ETF aims to provide diversified exposure to various MLPs, thereby potentially reducing the risk associated with investing in individual MLPs. This diversification is achieved through its benchmark, the Solactive MLP Infrastructure Index, which encompasses various MLPs operating across the US.

MLPA ETF: Benefits of Investing

One of the primary benefits of investing in the MLPA ETF is the potential for a high distribution yield. This is mainly due to the structure of MLPs, which are required to distribute most of their income to investors. This feature makes the MLPA ETF an attractive option for income-seeking investors.
Additionally, the MLPA ETF provides diversification within the energy sector, which can be a valuable aspect considering the volatility associated with individual energy stocks. Moreover, this ETF can act as a hedge against inflation since many MLPs have contracts with inflation adjustments.

MLPA ETF: Considerations Before Investing

Investing in the MLPA ETF is not without its set of considerations. Investors should be aware of the tax implications involved as MLPs are structured differently compared to corporations. The tax reporting for MLPs is more complex and could pose a challenge for investors unfamiliar with the tax implications of MLP investments.
Additionally, while the MLPA ETF provides a diversified exposure to the MLPs, it's heavily tied to the energy sector. Hence, any downturn in the energy sector or changes in energy legislation could potentially impact the performance of the MLPA ETF negatively.
Lastly, investors should also consider the expense ratio of the MLPA ETF, which is the annual fee expressed as a percentage of average assets under management. It’s important to compare this expense ratio with other investment alternatives in the same category to ensure it aligns with your investment goals.

Conclusion

The MLPA ETF presents a compelling investment opportunity for those looking to tap into the energy infrastructure space while possibly earning attractive distributions. Its diversification within the energy sector can provide a level of risk mitigation, which is often sought by investors. However, being well-versed with the tax implications and understanding the exposure to the energy sector is crucial before diving into an investment in the MLPA ETF. With adequate due diligence, investors can determine if the MLPA ETF aligns with their financial objectives and risk tolerance.

Sources:
Global X Funds. (2022). MLPA ETF - Global X MLP ETF.
Solactive AG. (2022). Solactive MLP Infrastructure Index.
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. (2022). Master Limited Partnerships: A Guide for Investors.

MLPA ETF issuer
MLPA ETF official page

MLPA quote and analysis

Discover the top holdings, correlations, and overlaps of ETFs using our visualization tool.
Our app allows you to build and track your portfolio.
To learn more about the MLPA Global X MLP ETF, access our dedicated page now.

Get started

FAQ

  • What is the MLPA ETF?

    The MLPA ETF is an exchange-traded fund that provides investors with exposure to a specific sector.

  • What is the underlying index that the MLPA ETF aims to track?

    The MLPA ETF aims to track the performance of a specific index, which includes companies involved in its respective sector.

  • What types of companies are included in the MLPA ETF?

    The MLPA ETF includes companies from its focused industry.

  • How does the MLPA ETF work?

    The MLPA ETF functions by pooling investors' capital to purchase a diversified portfolio of sector-related stocks.

  • What are the advantages of investing in the MLPA ETF?

    Investing in the MLPA ETF offers exposure to a specialized sector with potential for growth.