DMA vs SCHD
Destra Multi-Alternative 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 | DMA | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.69% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $80M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 13.39% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 181 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -6.70% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.28% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.13% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.9% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Destra Capital Investment LLC | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2022 | Oct 20, 2011 |
DMA vs SCHD Performance
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund (DMA) is a ETF from Destra Capital Investment LLC and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, DMA is down 6.70% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, DMA compounded at +24.13% per year against +15.08% for SCHD. Across the full 5-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +4.99%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DMA 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 -38.9% for DMA 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 0.25. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DMA charges 3.69% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $369 vs $6 annually, a gap of $363 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DMA currently yields 13.39% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
DMA and SCHD share 3 holdings out of 160 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DMA or SCHD?
DMA has an expense ratio of 3.69% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $363 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DMA or SCHD?
Over the past year DMA returned +1.28% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DMA annualized +4.99% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DMA or SCHD?
DMA has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: DMA -38.9% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both DMA and SCHD?
DMA and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.25, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DMA and SCHD?
DMA and SCHD share 3 common holdings with a 0.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 160 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DMA or SCHD?
DMA yields 13.39% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so DMA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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