SAMT vs SCHD
Strategas Macro Thematic Opportunities 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 | SAMT | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $867M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.58% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 36 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +11.50% | +25.33% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.24% | +32.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.62% | +15.40% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.70% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.6% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Strategas Asset Management, LLC | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2022 | Oct 20, 2011 |
SAMT vs SCHD Performance
Strategas Macro Thematic Opportunities ETF (SAMT) is a ETF from Strategas Asset Management, LLC and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year SAMT returned +23.24% while SCHD returned +32.31%. Year to date, SAMT is up 11.50% versus a gain of 25.33% for SCHD.
Over three years, SAMT compounded at +24.62% per year against +15.40% for SCHD. Across the full 5-year window we track, SAMT has the edge at +13.76% annualized vs +11.45%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAMT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -20.6% for SAMT 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAMT charges 0.66% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $6 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAMT currently yields 0.58% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
SAMT and SCHD share 3 holdings out of 137 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAMT or SCHD?
SAMT has an expense ratio of 0.66% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAMT or SCHD?
Over the past year SAMT returned +23.24% vs +32.31% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAMT annualized +13.76% vs +11.45% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAMT or SCHD?
SAMT has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: SAMT -20.6% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both SAMT and SCHD?
SAMT and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAMT and SCHD?
SAMT and SCHD share 3 common holdings with a 7.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 137 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAMT or SCHD?
SAMT yields 0.58% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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