Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF

MLPX

Market cap $3.62B

Midstream energy is back in the spotlight as Middle East supply risk reroutes capital toward pipeline cash flows, and two ETFs dominate the conversation: the Alerian MLP ETF (NYSEARCA:AMLP) and the Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF (NYSEARCA:MLPX).

Dividend Aristocrats are popular among retirees given their very dependable dividend growth through thick and thin. However, in recent years, many of these stocks have gotten left behind during the AI boom. I detail two opportunities that are beginning to benefit from surprising AI growth catalysts.

Midstream energy firms—those companies overseeing the transportation, storage, and some processing of oil and gas—remain an essential but often overlooked part of the energy ecosystem. Because these companies often operate like toll roads, in that they get paid whenever energy moves through their system, they can be vital sources of stability for investors.

Income investors looking at the 4.38% on a 10-year Treasury and wishing it were closer to seven have a quiet alternative: midstream energy.

The Global X - MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF is more cost-effective with an expense ratio 0.50 percentage points lower than the First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund. The First Trust North American Energy Infrastructure Fund offers broader diversification with 65 holdings and a heavy tilt toward utilities.

There are several macro trends that I have high conviction in. However, there are also several sectors that are positioned to benefit immensely from these macro trends that the market has recently sold off. I detail why I am bullish on these sectors and some high-yielding funds that are well-positioned to benefit.

For income investors holding Alerian MLP ETF (NYSEARCA:AMLP), the central question is whether the steady, rising cash stream from midstream pipeline partnerships can sustain through the next energy cycle.

Two of the most defensively positioned, highest-yielding opportunities in years are hiding in plain sight. One combines a 7%+ yield with strong long-term growth potential and is backed by powerful macro tailwinds. The other yields 12%, trades at a deep discount, has a solid business model and balance sheet, and is buying back stock aggressively.

The Alerian MLP ETF (NYSEARCA:AMLP) and the Global X MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF (NYSEARCA:MLPX) both offer stakes in the pipelines, storage tanks, and LNG terminals that move North American energy.

Alerian MLP ETF offers a significantly higher dividend yield but comes with more than double the expense ratio of Global X - MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF. Global X - MLP & Energy Infrastructure ETF has outperformed on both 1-year total return and 5-year growth of capital.