DFIS vs SCHD
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFIS offers more diversification with 3438 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFIS | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $5.7B | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 3,519 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +12.34% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.17% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.44% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.2% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 23, 2022 | Oct 20, 2011 |
DFIS vs SCHD Performance
Dimensional International Small Cap ETF (DFIS) is a ETF from Dimensional and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year DFIS returned +23.17% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, DFIS is up 12.34% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, DFIS compounded at +19.44% per year against +15.08% for SCHD. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFIS has the edge at +11.66% annualized vs +11.39%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -27.2% for DFIS 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFIS charges 0.39% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $6 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFIS currently yields 2.04% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
DFIS and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 3538 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFIS or SCHD?
DFIS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFIS or SCHD?
Over the past year DFIS returned +23.17% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFIS annualized +11.66% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFIS or SCHD?
DFIS has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: DFIS -27.2% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both DFIS and SCHD?
DFIS and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFIS and SCHD?
DFIS and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3538 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFIS or SCHD?
DFIS yields 2.04% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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