DFSE vs SCHD
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 ETF vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFSE offers more diversification with 1859 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSE | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.41% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $582M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.89% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 4,274 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +13.28% | +25.33% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.35% | +32.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.68% | +15.40% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.70% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.8% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 1, 2022 | Oct 20, 2011 |
DFSE vs SCHD Performance
Dimensional Emerging Markets Sustainability Core 1 ETF (DFSE) is a ETF from Dimensional and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year DFSE returned +25.35% while SCHD returned +32.31%. Year to date, DFSE is up 13.28% versus a gain of 25.33% for SCHD.
Over three years, DFSE compounded at +18.68% per year against +15.40% for SCHD. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSE has the edge at +20.68% annualized vs +11.45%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% 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 -19.8% for DFSE 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSE charges 0.41% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $41 vs $6 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSE currently yields 1.89% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
DFSE and SCHD share 78 holdings out of 1881 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSE or SCHD?
DFSE has an expense ratio of 0.41% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSE or SCHD?
Over the past year DFSE returned +25.35% vs +32.31% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSE annualized +20.68% vs +11.45% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSE or SCHD?
DFSE has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: DFSE -19.8% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both DFSE and SCHD?
DFSE and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSE and SCHD?
DFSE and SCHD share 78 common holdings with a 7.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1881 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSE or SCHD?
DFSE yields 1.89% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.