DFSV vs SCHD
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. DFSV delivered stronger 1-year returns. DFSV offers more diversification with 1013 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DFSV | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $8.2B | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.38% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 1,037 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +22.12% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.64% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.42% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.0% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Dimensional | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2022 | Oct 20, 2011 |
DFSV vs SCHD Performance
Dimensional US Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV) is a ETF from Dimensional and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year DFSV returned +37.64% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, DFSV is up 22.12% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, DFSV compounded at +15.42% per year against +15.08% for SCHD. Across the full 4-year window we track, DFSV has the edge at +12.99% annualized vs +11.39%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DFSV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -28.0% for DFSV 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DFSV charges 0.30% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $6 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DFSV currently yields 1.38% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
DFSV and SCHD share 32 holdings out of 1081 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DFSV or SCHD?
DFSV has an expense ratio of 0.30% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DFSV or SCHD?
Over the past year DFSV returned +37.64% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so DFSV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), DFSV annualized +12.99% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DFSV or SCHD?
DFSV has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: DFSV -28.0% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both DFSV and SCHD?
DFSV and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DFSV and SCHD?
DFSV and SCHD share 32 common holdings with a 2.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1081 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DFSV or SCHD?
DFSV yields 1.38% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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