HDGE vs SCHD
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear 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 | HDGE | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.62% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $51M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.70% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 64 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -13.31% | +27.67% | |
| 1Y Return | -9.13% | +29.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -10.30% | +16.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -8.41% | +9.95% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.9% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.7% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Advisor Shares | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2011 | Oct 20, 2011 |
HDGE vs SCHD Performance
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear ETF (HDGE) is a ETF from Advisor Shares and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year HDGE returned -9.13% while SCHD returned +29.56%. Year to date, HDGE is down 13.31% versus a gain of 27.67% for SCHD.
Over three years, HDGE compounded at -10.30% per year against +16.53% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are -8.41% and +9.95% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.55% annualized vs -16.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HDGE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.9% 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 -94.7% for HDGE 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 -0.71. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDGE charges 3.62% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $362 vs $6 annually, a gap of $356 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDGE currently yields 3.70% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
HDGE and SCHD share 5 holdings out of 157 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, HDGE or SCHD?
HDGE has an expense ratio of 3.62% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $356 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDGE or SCHD?
Over the past year HDGE returned -9.13% vs +29.56% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), HDGE annualized -16.16% vs +11.55% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDGE or SCHD?
HDGE has been the more volatile fund at 20.9% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: HDGE -94.7% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both HDGE and SCHD?
HDGE and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of -0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDGE and SCHD?
HDGE and SCHD share 5 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 157 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDGE or SCHD?
HDGE yields 3.70% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so HDGE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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