AGD vs SCHD
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. SCHD offers more diversification with 100 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AGD | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.35% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $326M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.71% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 88 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +12.54% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.58% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.83% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.01% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.7% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2006 | Oct 20, 2011 |
AGD vs SCHD Performance
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (AGD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year AGD returned +21.58% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, AGD is up 12.54% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, AGD compounded at +21.83% per year against +15.08% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +10.01% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs -3.28%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AGD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.7% compared with 13.6% for SCHD. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -88.3% for AGD and -33.4% for SCHD. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AGD charges 1.35% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $135 vs $6 annually, a gap of $129 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGD currently yields 11.71% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
AGD and SCHD share 9 holdings out of 177 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGD or SCHD?
AGD has an expense ratio of 1.35% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $129 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGD or SCHD?
Over the past year AGD returned +21.58% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), AGD annualized -3.28% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGD or SCHD?
AGD has been the more volatile fund at 23.7% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: AGD -88.3% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both AGD and SCHD?
AGD and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AGD and SCHD?
AGD and SCHD share 9 common holdings with a 7.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 177 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGD or SCHD?
AGD yields 11.71% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so AGD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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