MLPA vs SCHD
Global X MLP 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 | MLPA | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $108.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.96% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +22.48% | +28.63% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.56% | +32.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.83% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.16% | +10.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.3% | 13.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -86.2% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2012 | Oct 20, 2011 |
MLPA vs SCHD Performance
Global X MLP ETF (MLPA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year MLPA returned +23.56% while SCHD returned +32.53%. Year to date, MLPA is up 22.48% versus a gain of 28.63% for SCHD.
Over three years, MLPA compounded at +17.83% per year against +16.97% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +20.16% and +10.47% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.63% annualized vs -0.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.3% compared with 13.7% 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 -86.2% for MLPA 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPA charges 0.77% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $6 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPA currently yields 6.96% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
MLPA and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 119 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MLPA | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| OKE | 0.00% | 1.36% | 1.36% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPA or SCHD?
MLPA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPA or SCHD?
Over the past year MLPA returned +23.56% vs +32.53% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MLPA annualized -0.35% vs +11.63% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPA or SCHD?
MLPA has been the more volatile fund at 26.3% annualized versus 13.7% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: MLPA -86.2% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both MLPA and SCHD?
MLPA and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPA and SCHD?
MLPA and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 119 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPA or SCHD?
MLPA yields 6.96% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so MLPA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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