GLU vs SCHD
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. GLU offers more diversification with 257 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLU | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.40% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $145M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.26% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 272 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +1.61% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.17% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.89% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.9% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2004 | Oct 20, 2011 |
GLU vs SCHD Performance
The Gabelli Global Utility & Income Trust (GLU) 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 GLU returned +14.17% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, GLU is up 1.61% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, GLU compounded at +17.83% per year against +15.08% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +4.89% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +1.55%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% 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 -64.9% for GLU 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLU charges 1.40% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $140 vs $6 annually, a gap of $134 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLU currently yields 6.26% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
GLU and SCHD share 6 holdings out of 351 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLU or SCHD?
GLU has an expense ratio of 1.40% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $134 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLU or SCHD?
Over the past year GLU returned +14.17% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), GLU annualized +1.55% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLU or SCHD?
GLU has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: GLU -64.9% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both GLU and SCHD?
GLU and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLU and SCHD?
GLU and SCHD share 6 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 351 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLU or SCHD?
GLU yields 6.26% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so GLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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