After a rocky stretch over the past couple years during the artificial intelligence (AI) boom period, the Schwab U.S.
Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEMKT: SCHD) is back to being an elite performer
The fund is up some 16% year to date, which puts it near the top of the U.S. dividend ETF category, and double the performance of the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. It’s been a strong comeback for a fund that has been a top-tier performer since its launch in 2011. On top of that, the Schwab U.S.
Dividend Equity ETF has grown its annual dividend every year since its inception. Not only have shareholders enjoyed a 13% average annual return since inception (in an environment where tech and growth stocks have dominated nonetheless), they’ve also been able to count on an income stream that’s steadily improved and remained well above the rate of inflation. But those returns were achieved during the first half of 2026.