NSCS vs SCHD
Nuveen Small Cap Select 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 | NSCS | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.86% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $7M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.31% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 82 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | -6.06% | +25.58% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.63% | +31.06% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.00% | +15.55% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.61% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.6% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 4, 2021 | Oct 20, 2011 |
NSCS vs SCHD Performance
Nuveen Small Cap Select ETF (NSCS) is a ETF from Nuveen and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% while SCHD returned +31.06%. Year to date, NSCS is down 6.06% versus a gain of 25.58% for SCHD.
Over three years, NSCS compounded at +10.00% per year against +15.55% for SCHD. Across the full 4-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.46% annualized vs +1.72%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NSCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -30.6% for NSCS 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSCS charges 0.86% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $86 vs $6 annually, a gap of $80 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NSCS currently yields 0.31% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSCS or SCHD?
NSCS has an expense ratio of 0.86% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $80 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NSCS or SCHD?
Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% vs +31.06% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), NSCS annualized +1.72% vs +11.46% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSCS or SCHD?
NSCS has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: NSCS -30.6% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both NSCS and SCHD?
NSCS and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSCS or SCHD?
NSCS yields 0.31% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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