FDG vs SCHD
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth 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 104 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDG | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $428M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +6.40% | +25.69% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.13% | +30.41% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.63% | +16.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.47% | +9.64% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.7% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | American Century ETFs | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2020 | Oct 20, 2011 |
FDG vs SCHD Performance
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF (FDG) is a ETF from American Century ETFs and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year FDG returned +16.13% while SCHD returned +30.41%. Year to date, FDG is up 6.40% versus a gain of 25.69% for SCHD.
Over three years, FDG compounded at +28.63% per year against +16.03% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +10.47% and +9.64% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FDG has the edge at +21.74% annualized vs +11.46%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% 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 -43.7% for FDG 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDG charges 0.45% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $6 annually, a gap of $39 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDG currently yields 0.00% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
FDG and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 144 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, FDG or SCHD?
FDG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $39 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDG or SCHD?
Over the past year FDG returned +16.13% vs +30.41% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FDG annualized +21.74% vs +11.46% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDG or SCHD?
FDG has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: FDG -43.7% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both FDG and SCHD?
FDG and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDG and SCHD?
FDG and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 144 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDG or SCHD?
FDG yields 0.00% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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