HEQT vs SCHD
Simplify Hedged Equity 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 100 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HEQT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $295M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.19% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +8.79% | +26.21% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.29% | +29.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.93% | +15.73% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.67% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.9% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -11.5% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 1, 2021 | Oct 20, 2011 |
HEQT vs SCHD Performance
Simplify Hedged Equity ETF (HEQT) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year HEQT returned +14.29% while SCHD returned +29.99%. Year to date, HEQT is up 8.79% versus a gain of 26.21% for SCHD.
Over three years, HEQT compounded at +13.93% per year against +15.73% for SCHD. Across the full 5-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.50% annualized vs +9.58%. 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 7.9% for HEQT. 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 -11.5% for HEQT 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HEQT charges 0.43% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $6 annually, a gap of $37 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HEQT currently yields 1.19% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
HEQT and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 101 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, HEQT or SCHD?
HEQT has an expense ratio of 0.43% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $37 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HEQT or SCHD?
Over the past year HEQT returned +14.29% vs +29.99% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), HEQT annualized +9.58% vs +11.50% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HEQT or SCHD?
SCHD has been the more volatile fund at 13.6% annualized versus 7.9% for HEQT. Worst drawdown: HEQT -11.5% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both HEQT and SCHD?
HEQT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HEQT and SCHD?
HEQT and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 101 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HEQT or SCHD?
HEQT yields 1.19% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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