LSAF vs SCHD
LeaderShares AlphaFactor US Core 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 104 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LSAF | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $127M | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.57% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +23.45% | +27.67% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.19% | +29.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.14% | +16.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.11% | +9.95% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.3% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -41.7% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | LeaderShares | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2018 | Oct 20, 2011 |
LSAF vs SCHD Performance
LeaderShares AlphaFactor US Core Equity ETF (LSAF) is a ETF from LeaderShares and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year LSAF returned +27.19% while SCHD returned +29.56%. Year to date, LSAF is up 23.45% versus a gain of 27.67% for SCHD.
Over three years, LSAF compounded at +21.14% per year against +16.53% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +11.11% and +9.95% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.55% annualized vs +11.46%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LSAF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.3% 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 -41.7% for LSAF 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LSAF charges 0.75% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $6 annually, a gap of $69 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LSAF currently yields 0.57% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
LSAF and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 198 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in LSAF | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TROW | 0.99% | 0.61% | 0.38% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LSAF or SCHD?
LSAF has an expense ratio of 0.75% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $69 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LSAF or SCHD?
Over the past year LSAF returned +27.19% vs +29.56% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), LSAF annualized +11.46% vs +11.55% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LSAF or SCHD?
LSAF has been the more volatile fund at 19.3% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: LSAF -41.7% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both LSAF and SCHD?
LSAF and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between LSAF and SCHD?
LSAF and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 198 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LSAF or SCHD?
LSAF yields 0.57% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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