IMST vs SCHD
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy 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 | IMST | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.98% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $6M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 252.16% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -32.44% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | -70.05% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 48.9% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -75.6% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Bitwise | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 1, 2025 | Oct 20, 2011 |
IMST vs SCHD Performance
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF (IMST) is a ETF from Bitwise and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, IMST is down 32.44% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 48.9% 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 -75.6% for IMST 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 0.31. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMST charges 0.98% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $98 vs $6 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMST currently yields 252.16% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IMST or SCHD?
IMST has an expense ratio of 0.98% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMST or SCHD?
Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), IMST annualized -51.17% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMST or SCHD?
IMST has been the more volatile fund at 48.9% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: IMST -75.6% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both IMST and SCHD?
IMST and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.31, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMST or SCHD?
IMST yields 252.16% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so IMST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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