NPCT vs SCHD
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund 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 | NPCT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.38% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | - | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.27% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +2.92% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.22% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.02% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.34% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.8% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 27, 2021 | Oct 20, 2011 |
NPCT vs SCHD Performance
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund (NPCT) is a ETF from Nuveen and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year NPCT returned -0.22% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, NPCT is up 2.92% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, NPCT compounded at +12.02% per year against +15.08% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are -3.34% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs -3.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NPCT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -46.8% for NPCT 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NPCT charges 1.38% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $138 vs $6 annually, a gap of $132 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NPCT currently yields 11.27% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
NPCT and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 106 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, NPCT or SCHD?
NPCT has an expense ratio of 1.38% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $132 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NPCT or SCHD?
Over the past year NPCT returned -0.22% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), NPCT annualized -3.06% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NPCT or SCHD?
NPCT has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: NPCT -46.8% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both NPCT and SCHD?
NPCT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NPCT and SCHD?
NPCT and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 106 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NPCT or SCHD?
NPCT yields 11.27% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so NPCT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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