PLTA vs SCHD
ProShares Ultra PLTR 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 103 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PLTA | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $7M | $112.2B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 3.13% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 103 | |
| YTD Return | -28.18% | +28.33% | |
| 1Y Return | -35.52% | +30.37% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +16.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +10.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 141.6% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.0% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2025 | Oct 20, 2011 |
PLTA vs SCHD Performance
ProShares Ultra PLTR ETF (PLTA) is a ETF from ProShares and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% while SCHD returned +30.37%. Year to date, PLTA is down 28.18% versus a gain of 28.33% for SCHD.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 141.6% 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 -80.0% for PLTA 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 -0.03. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTA charges 0.95% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $6 annually, a gap of $89 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PLTA currently yields 3.98% against 3.13% for SCHD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTA or SCHD?
PLTA has an expense ratio of 0.95% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $89 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PLTA or SCHD?
Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% vs +30.37% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTA or SCHD?
PLTA has been the more volatile fund at 141.6% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: PLTA -80.0% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both PLTA and SCHD?
PLTA and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of -0.03, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTA or SCHD?
PLTA yields 3.98% while SCHD yields 3.13%, so PLTA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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