MLPI vs SCHD
MLPI vs SCHD
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income 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 | MLPI | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $813M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.49% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +4.73% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.20% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 111.3% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -81.4% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | NEOS | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 18, 2025 | Oct 20, 2011 |
MLPI vs SCHD Performance
NEOS MLP & Energy Infrastructure High Income ETF (MLPI) is a ETF from NEOS and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year MLPI returned +6.20% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, MLPI is up 4.73% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MLPI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 111.3% 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 -81.4% for MLPI 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MLPI charges 0.68% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $6 annually, a gap of $62 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MLPI currently yields 8.49% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
MLPI and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 123 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MLPI | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| OKE | 5.60% | 1.50% | 4.10% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MLPI or SCHD?
MLPI has an expense ratio of 0.68% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $62 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MLPI or SCHD?
Over the past year MLPI returned +6.20% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), MLPI annualized +8.30% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MLPI or SCHD?
MLPI has been the more volatile fund at 111.3% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: MLPI -81.4% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both MLPI and SCHD?
MLPI and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MLPI and SCHD?
MLPI and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 123 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MLPI or SCHD?
MLPI yields 8.49% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so MLPI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.