SCHD vs VPL
SCHD vs VPL
Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF vs Vanguard FTSE Pacific ETF
Quick Verdict
SCHD has a lower expense ratio. VPL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VPL offers more diversification with 2292 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SCHD | VPL | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.07% | |
| AUM | $103.7B | $8.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.31% | 2.64% | |
| Holdings | 104 | 2,361 | |
| YTD Return | +24.26% | +23.91% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.38% | +38.92% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.08% | +21.49% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.72% | +10.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.6% | 16.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.4% | -55.5% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 20, 2011 | Mar 4, 2005 |
SCHD vs VPL Performance
Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard FTSE Pacific ETF (VPL) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SCHD returned +31.38% while VPL returned +38.92%. Year to date, SCHD is up 24.26% versus a gain of 23.91% for VPL.
Over three years, SCHD compounded at +15.08% per year against +21.49% for VPL; over five years the annualized figures are +9.72% and +10.04% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +6.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VPL 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 -33.4% for SCHD and -55.5% for VPL. 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SCHD charges 0.06% per year while VPL charges 0.07%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $7 annually, a gap of $1 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SCHD currently yields 3.31% against 2.64% for VPL.
Holdings Overlap
SCHD and VPL share 1 holdings out of 2391 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in SCHD | Weight in VPL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLB:CW | 1.80% | 1.56% | 0.24% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SCHD or VPL?
SCHD has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VPL charges 0.07%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $1 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SCHD or VPL?
Over the past year SCHD returned +31.38% vs +38.92% for VPL, so VPL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), SCHD annualized +11.39% vs +6.78% for VPL. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SCHD or VPL?
VPL has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 13.6% for SCHD. Worst drawdown: SCHD -33.4% vs VPL -55.5%.
Should I hold both SCHD and VPL?
SCHD and VPL have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SCHD and VPL?
SCHD and VPL share 1 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2391 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SCHD or VPL?
SCHD yields 3.31% while VPL yields 2.64%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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