RFDI vs SCHD
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Developed International ETF vs Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. RFDI offers more diversification with 147 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RFDI | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.83% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $161M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.25% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 159 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +15.08% | +25.62% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.29% | +32.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.59% | +15.58% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.69% | +9.63% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -42.4% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 14, 2016 | Oct 20, 2011 |
RFDI vs SCHD Performance
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Developed International ETF (RFDI) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year RFDI returned +28.29% while SCHD returned +32.62%. Year to date, RFDI is up 15.08% versus a gain of 25.62% for SCHD.
Over three years, RFDI compounded at +21.59% per year against +15.58% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +8.69% and +9.63% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.47% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFDI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% 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 -42.4% for RFDI 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFDI charges 0.83% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $83 vs $6 annually, a gap of $77 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RFDI currently yields 3.25% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
RFDI and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 247 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, RFDI or SCHD?
RFDI has an expense ratio of 0.83% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $77 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RFDI or SCHD?
Over the past year RFDI returned +28.29% vs +32.62% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), RFDI annualized +8.07% vs +11.47% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFDI or SCHD?
RFDI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: RFDI -42.4% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both RFDI and SCHD?
RFDI and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RFDI and SCHD?
RFDI and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 247 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFDI or SCHD?
RFDI yields 3.25% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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