EQLT vs SCHD
EQLT vs SCHD
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. EQLT delivered stronger 1-year returns. EQLT offers more diversification with 298 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EQLT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $12M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.13% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 321 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +25.31% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +46.36% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.92% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.92% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.1% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.8% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 4, 2024 | Oct 20, 2011 |
EQLT vs SCHD Performance
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF (EQLT) 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 EQLT returned +46.36% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, EQLT is up 25.31% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, EQLT compounded at +2.92% per year against +15.08% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +2.92% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +3.67%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EQLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.1% 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 -45.8% for EQLT 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EQLT charges 0.35% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $6 annually, a gap of $29 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EQLT currently yields 2.13% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
EQLT and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 397 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EQLT | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACN | 4.76% | 2.24% | 2.52% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EQLT or SCHD?
EQLT has an expense ratio of 0.35% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $29 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EQLT or SCHD?
Over the past year EQLT returned +46.36% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so EQLT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), EQLT annualized +3.67% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EQLT or SCHD?
EQLT has been the more volatile fund at 19.1% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: EQLT -45.8% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both EQLT and SCHD?
EQLT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EQLT and SCHD?
EQLT and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 2.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 397 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EQLT or SCHD?
EQLT yields 2.13% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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