Master limited partnership exchange traded funds are holding up and could outpace the broader markets, even as other yield-generating assets weaken in a rising interest rate environment.
Over the past month, the Alerian MLP ETF (NYSEArca: AMLP) dropped 1.3% and JPMorgan Alerian MLP Index ETN (NYSEArca: AMJ) dipped 0.9%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 index declined 2.6% in the last month. Year-to-date, AMLP and AMJ have also outperformed the S&P 500, rising 14.2% and 24.4%, respectively, compared to the S&P’s gain of 13.6%. [MLP ETFs: Vulnerable to Rising Rates?]
After the broader markets pulled back on mounting speculation that the Fed will ease back on its bond-purchasing program and rising rates, Credit Suisse believes that it is now a perfect entry point into MLP assets, writes Aaron Levitt for Investopedia.
According to Credit Suisse research, MLPs will still outperform in a rising rate environment. For instance, between mid-2004 and mid-2007, MLPs outpaced both the S&P 500 and yield-oriented asset classes, such as utilities and bonds.
Looking ahead, Credit Suisse also anticipates further growth in the industry, supported by rising energy production across the U.S. and increased demand for energy-related infrastructure.
The U.S. is pulling out more oil than it has since 1991 and more natural gas than it has in its 100-year history, especially with increased “fracking” operations, writes Aimee Duffy for DailyFiance. This increased supply is dependent on midstream infrastructure.