MSSS vs SCHD
Monarch Select Subsector Index 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 | MSSS | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.43% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $145M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.28% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +21.96% | +26.21% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.70% | +29.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.73% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.67% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | Oct 20, 2011 |
MSSS vs SCHD Performance
Monarch Select Subsector Index ETF (MSSS) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year MSSS returned +23.70% while SCHD returned +29.99%. Year to date, MSSS is up 21.96% versus a gain of 26.21% for SCHD.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSSS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% 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 -19.1% for MSSS 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSSS charges 1.43% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $143 vs $6 annually, a gap of $137 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSSS currently yields 0.28% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
MSSS and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 110 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, MSSS or SCHD?
MSSS has an expense ratio of 1.43% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $137 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSSS or SCHD?
Over the past year MSSS returned +23.70% vs +29.99% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MSSS annualized +17.32% vs +11.50% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSSS or SCHD?
MSSS has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: MSSS -19.1% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both MSSS and SCHD?
MSSS and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSSS and SCHD?
MSSS and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 110 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSSS or SCHD?
MSSS yields 0.28% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD 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.