SCHY vs VYM
Schwab International Dividend Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SCHY | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.50% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 136 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.87% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.80% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.99% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.92% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 28, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SCHY vs VYM Performance
Schwab International Dividend Equity ETF (SCHY) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SCHY returned +24.80% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, SCHY is up 12.87% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, SCHY compounded at +16.99% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.92% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, SCHY has the edge at +9.45% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.8% for SCHY. 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 -24.0% for SCHY and -58.8% for VYM. 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
SCHY charges 0.08% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $4 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SCHY currently yields 3.50% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SCHY and VYM share 1 holdings out of 662 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in SCHY | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| KR | 0.00% | 0.18% | 0.18% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SCHY or VYM?
SCHY has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SCHY or VYM?
Over the past year SCHY returned +24.80% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SCHY annualized +9.45% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SCHY or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.8% for SCHY. Worst drawdown: SCHY -24.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both SCHY and VYM?
SCHY and VYM 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 SCHY and VYM?
SCHY and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 662 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SCHY or VYM?
SCHY yields 3.50% while VYM yields 2.86%, so SCHY currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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