SCHD vs VGK
Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF vs Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGK offers more diversification with 958 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SCHD | VGK | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $103.7B | $30.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.31% | 2.94% | |
| Holdings | 104 | 1,251 | |
| YTD Return | +24.26% | +11.52% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.38% | +23.34% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.08% | +18.09% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.72% | +9.58% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.6% | 18.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.4% | -67.3% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 20, 2011 | Mar 4, 2005 |
SCHD vs VGK Performance
Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SCHD returned +31.38% while VGK returned +23.34%. Year to date, SCHD is up 24.26% versus a gain of 11.52% for VGK.
Over three years, SCHD compounded at +15.08% per year against +18.09% for VGK; over five years the annualized figures are +9.72% and +9.58% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +3.71%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VGK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.5% 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 -33.4% for SCHD and -67.3% for VGK. 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SCHD charges 0.06% per year while VGK charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $6 annually. On income, SCHD currently yields 3.31% against 2.94% for VGK.
Holdings Overlap
SCHD and VGK share 1 holdings out of 1057 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in SCHD | Weight in VGK | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLB:CW | 1.80% | 0.50% | 1.30% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SCHD or VGK?
SCHD has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VGK charges 0.06%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SCHD or VGK?
Over the past year SCHD returned +31.38% vs +23.34% for VGK, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), SCHD annualized +11.39% vs +3.71% for VGK. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SCHD or VGK?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: SCHD -33.4% vs VGK -67.3%.
Should I hold both SCHD and VGK?
SCHD and VGK have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SCHD and VGK?
SCHD and VGK share 1 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1057 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SCHD or VGK?
SCHD yields 3.31% while VGK yields 2.94%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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