GDL vs SCHD
The GDL Fund vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. GDL offers more diversification with 129 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GDL | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.70% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $119M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.50% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 129 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +3.46% | +26.50% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.20% | +31.25% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.36% | +16.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.75% | +10.10% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.5% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.5% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2007 | Oct 20, 2011 |
GDL vs SCHD Performance
The GDL Fund (GDL) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year GDL returned +6.20% while SCHD returned +31.25%. Year to date, GDL is up 3.46% versus a gain of 26.50% for SCHD.
Over three years, GDL compounded at +8.36% per year against +16.34% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +4.75% and +10.10% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.50% annualized vs -2.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SCHD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 13.6% compared with 8.5% for GDL. 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 -72.5% for GDL 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDL charges 2.70% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $270 vs $6 annually, a gap of $264 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDL currently yields 4.50% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
GDL and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 214 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GDL | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLB | 0.25% | 1.89% | 1.64% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDL or SCHD?
GDL has an expense ratio of 2.70% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $264 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDL or SCHD?
Over the past year GDL returned +6.20% vs +31.25% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), GDL annualized -2.75% vs +11.50% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDL or SCHD?
SCHD has been the more volatile fund at 13.6% annualized versus 8.5% for GDL. Worst drawdown: GDL -72.5% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both GDL and SCHD?
GDL and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDL and SCHD?
GDL and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 214 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDL or SCHD?
GDL yields 4.50% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so GDL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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