KWT vs SCHD
iShares MSCI Kuwait 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 | KWT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.74% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $68M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.58% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 41 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -2.37% | +26.54% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.96% | +30.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.44% | +16.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.95% | +9.65% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.7% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.4% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 1, 2020 | Oct 20, 2011 |
KWT vs SCHD Performance
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF (KWT) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year KWT returned -1.96% while SCHD returned +30.90%. Year to date, KWT is down 2.37% versus a gain of 26.54% for SCHD.
Over three years, KWT compounded at +9.44% per year against +16.29% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +7.95% and +9.65% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, KWT has the edge at +11.85% annualized vs +11.51%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KWT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 13.7% 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 -24.4% for KWT 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KWT charges 0.74% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $74 vs $6 annually, a gap of $68 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KWT currently yields 5.58% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
KWT and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 136 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, KWT or SCHD?
KWT has an expense ratio of 0.74% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $68 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KWT or SCHD?
Over the past year KWT returned -1.96% vs +30.90% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), KWT annualized +11.85% vs +11.51% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KWT or SCHD?
KWT has been the more volatile fund at 13.7% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: KWT -24.4% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both KWT and SCHD?
KWT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KWT and SCHD?
KWT and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 136 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KWT or SCHD?
KWT yields 5.58% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so KWT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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