EMIF vs SCHD
iShares Emerging Markets Infrastructure ETF 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 | EMIF | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $13M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.22% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 47 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -2.52% | +25.62% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.75% | +32.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.07% | +15.58% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.03% | +9.63% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.2% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -54.6% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2009 | Oct 20, 2011 |
EMIF vs SCHD Performance
iShares Emerging Markets Infrastructure ETF (EMIF) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year EMIF returned +8.75% while SCHD returned +32.62%. Year to date, EMIF is down 2.52% versus a gain of 25.62% for SCHD.
Over three years, EMIF compounded at +11.07% per year against +15.58% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +5.03% and +9.63% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.47% annualized vs +1.41%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMIF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.2% 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 -54.6% for EMIF 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMIF charges 0.60% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $6 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMIF currently yields 4.22% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
EMIF and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 130 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, EMIF or SCHD?
EMIF has an expense ratio of 0.60% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMIF or SCHD?
Over the past year EMIF returned +8.75% vs +32.62% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), EMIF annualized +1.41% vs +11.47% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMIF or SCHD?
EMIF has been the more volatile fund at 18.2% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: EMIF -54.6% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both EMIF and SCHD?
EMIF and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMIF and SCHD?
EMIF and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 130 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMIF or SCHD?
EMIF yields 4.22% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so EMIF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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