GDMA vs SCHD
GDMA vs SCHD
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset 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 | GDMA | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $197M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.48% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +9.42% | +24.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.57% | +31.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.21% | +15.08% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.04% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.9% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.7% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | Gadsden Funds | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 14, 2018 | Oct 20, 2011 |
GDMA vs SCHD Performance
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset ETF (GDMA) is a ETF from Gadsden Funds and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year GDMA returned +19.57% while SCHD returned +31.38%. Year to date, GDMA is up 9.42% versus a gain of 24.26% for SCHD.
Over three years, GDMA compounded at +15.21% per year against +15.08% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +8.04% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.39% annualized vs +9.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SCHD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 13.6% compared with 9.9% for GDMA. 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 -16.7% for GDMA 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDMA charges 0.75% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $6 annually, a gap of $69 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDMA currently yields 2.48% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
GDMA and SCHD share 1 holdings out of 139 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 GDMA | Weight in SCHD | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TXN | 0.46% | 3.70% | 3.24% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDMA or SCHD?
GDMA has an expense ratio of 0.75% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $69 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDMA or SCHD?
Over the past year GDMA returned +19.57% vs +31.38% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), GDMA annualized +9.11% vs +11.39% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDMA or SCHD?
SCHD has been the more volatile fund at 13.6% annualized versus 9.9% for GDMA. Worst drawdown: GDMA -16.7% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both GDMA and SCHD?
GDMA and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDMA and SCHD?
GDMA and SCHD share 1 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 139 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDMA or SCHD?
GDMA yields 2.48% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so SCHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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