LDSF vs SCHD
LDSF vs SCHD
First Trust Low Duration Strategic Focus 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 | LDSF | SCHD | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $161M | $103.7B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.62% | 3.31% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 104 | |
| YTD Return | +1.23% | +23.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.42% | +30.95% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.17% | +14.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.44% | +9.56% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.3% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.7% | -33.4% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Charles Schwab Asset Management | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 2, 2019 | Oct 20, 2011 |
LDSF vs SCHD Performance
First Trust Low Duration Strategic Focus ETF (LDSF) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management. Over the past year LDSF returned +3.42% while SCHD returned +30.95%. Year to date, LDSF is up 1.23% versus a gain of 23.53% for SCHD.
Over three years, LDSF compounded at +5.17% per year against +14.72% for SCHD; over five years the annualized figures are +2.44% and +9.56% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, SCHD has the edge at +11.35% annualized vs +1.72%. 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 3.3% for LDSF. 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 -8.7% for LDSF 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LDSF charges 0.77% per year while SCHD charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $6 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LDSF currently yields 4.62% against 3.31% for SCHD.
Holdings Overlap
LDSF and SCHD share 0 holdings out of 109 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LDSF or SCHD?
LDSF has an expense ratio of 0.77% while SCHD charges 0.06%. SCHD is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LDSF or SCHD?
Over the past year LDSF returned +3.42% vs +30.95% for SCHD, so SCHD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), LDSF annualized +1.72% vs +11.35% for SCHD. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LDSF or SCHD?
SCHD has been the more volatile fund at 13.6% annualized versus 3.3% for LDSF. Worst drawdown: LDSF -8.7% vs SCHD -33.4%.
Should I hold both LDSF and SCHD?
LDSF and SCHD have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LDSF and SCHD?
LDSF and SCHD share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 109 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LDSF or SCHD?
LDSF yields 4.62% while SCHD yields 3.31%, so LDSF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.