FPXI vs SCHD
First Trust International Equity Opportunities 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 | FPXI | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $302M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.67% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 61 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +19.83% | +26.50% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.42% | +31.25% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.62% | +16.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.53% | +10.10% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.8% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Oct 20, 2011 |
FPXI vs SCHD Performance
First Trust International Equity Opportunities ETF (FPXI) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year FPXI returned +25.42% while SCHD returned +31.25%. Year to date, FPXI is up 19.83% versus a gain of 26.50% for SCHD.
Over three years, FPXI compounded at +23.62% per year against +16.34% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +2.53% and +10.10% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.50% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FPXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.4% 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 -55.8% for FPXI 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FPXI charges 0.70% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $6 annually, a gap of $64 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FPXI currently yields 0.67% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
FPXI and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 151 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, FPXI or SCHD?
FPXI has an expense ratio of 0.70% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $64 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FPXI or SCHD?
Over the past year FPXI returned +25.42% vs +31.25% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FPXI annualized +8.16% vs +11.50% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FPXI or SCHD?
FPXI has been the more volatile fund at 20.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: FPXI -55.8% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both FPXI and SCHD?
FPXI and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FPXI and SCHD?
FPXI and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 151 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FPXI or SCHD?
FPXI yields 0.67% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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