QALT vs SCHD
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative 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 | QALT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.80% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $192M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.44% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +7.28% | +25.62% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.02% | +32.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +15.58% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.63% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.3% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.8% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 25, 2025 | Oct 20, 2011 |
QALT vs SCHD Performance
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative ETF (QALT) is a ETF from SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year QALT returned +13.02% while SCHD returned +32.62%. Year to date, QALT is up 7.28% versus a gain of 25.62% for SCHD.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SCHD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 13.6% compared with 7.3% for QALT. 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 -4.8% for QALT 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 0.36. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QALT charges 0.80% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $80 vs $6 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QALT currently yields 5.44% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QALT or SCHD?
QALT has an expense ratio of 0.80% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QALT or SCHD?
Over the past year QALT returned +13.02% vs +32.62% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QALT or SCHD?
SCHD has been the more volatile fund at 13.6% annualized versus 7.3% for QALT. Worst drawdown: QALT -4.8% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both QALT and SCHD?
QALT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.36, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, QALT or SCHD?
QALT yields 5.44% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so QALT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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