This investment vehicle is designed to track the financial performance of the Alerian MLP Index, net of its inherent fees. The index itself monitors the returns of 50 key master limited partnerships within the energy industry. These constituent entities derive the bulk of their earnings from activities such as transporting, storing, processing, or producing various energy commodities. The calculation, upkeep, and dissemination of the Alerian MLP Index are managed by S&P, in collaboration with the index's sponsor.