The clean energy ETF ICLN offers lower fees while AMLP delivers a 7.6% higher dividend yield amid contrasting energy strategies.
Investors face a stark choice between the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN) and the Alerian MLP ETF (AMLP), reflecting opposing energy sector bets. ICLN targets renewables with a 0.40% expense ratio, while AMLP focuses on midstream infrastructure, yielding 7.6 percentage points more than ICLN at $4.02 per share over the past year.
AMLP’s portfolio is heavily concentrated, with 98% in energy and just 14 holdings, including top positions in Plains All American Pipeline (PAA) and Western Midstream Partners (WES). ICLN, by contrast, spans 145 holdings across utilities, industrials, and energy, offering broader exposure to the global energy transition.
The funds’ differing risk profiles and cost structures cater to distinct investor priorities, with AMLP appealing to income seekers despite its higher expense ratio.