Index reconstitution is how SCHD keeps its roster fresh and its performance on track. Wondering why your SCHD lineup seems to change every spring? Here’s the straight scoop: understanding these annual shake-ups isn’t just trivia – it’s essential for anyone who wants to know what’s really happening under the hood of their SCHD ETF.
What Is Index Reconstitution?
Let’s break it down: index reconstitution is the process where SCHD’s underlying index swaps out some stocks and brings in new ones. What happens when your ETF changes horses midstream? Sometimes, it’s a minor adjustment; other times, it’s a full-on barn renovation.
Think of it as rotating the stable – fresh horses keep the race going, while tired ones get a break. This isn’t just for show; it’s how SCHD stays true to its mission of holding the most reliable dividend payers.
The 2025 Shake-Up – What Changed?
Remember the 2025 shake-up?
SCHD’s index made several notable moves, adding more energy and industrial names while letting go of a few laggards. These changes shifted SCHD’s sector weights, giving more hay to energy and industrials.
Company Added | Sector | Company Removed | Sector |
ConocoPhillips | Energy | Intel | Technology |
Lockheed Martin | Industrials | Walgreens Boots | Consumer Discr. |
Chevron | Energy | IBM | Technology |
Altria Group | Consumer Staples | 3M | Industrials |
The result?
A lineup that’s more defensive and income-focused – though it might lag when tech stocks are running wild.
How Reconstitution Impacts Risk & Yield?
Reconstitution can tweak your fund’s portfolio risk, boost or trim the yield, and even shift sector balance.
Should you worry when the lineup changes?
Not necessarily, but it pays to pay attention.

Key impacts:
- Risk: New sectors or companies can either smooth out or amplify volatility.
- Yield: Adding higher-yield stocks can bump up payouts – sometimes at the cost of stability.
- Sector Balance: Overweighting certain sectors may increase exposure to downturns in those areas.
Rebalancing is like rotating the horses – fresh legs keep the stable strong, but you want to make sure the new recruits can pull their weight.
What Investors Should Watch Every Year?
Here’s your annual checklist for SCHD’s reconstitution:
- Review the updated holdings and sector weights.
- Check if the yield or risk metrics have shifted.
- Watch for big changes in sector exposure – especially if you’re already heavy in certain industries.
- Ask yourself: Does the new lineup still fit your goals?
A little attention each spring can help you ride smoothly all year.
Index reconstitution isn’t just a technicality – it’s a vital part of SCHD’s long-term health. By understanding these annual changes, you’ll know when your ETF is swapping out tired horses for fresh contenders. A well-tended stable keeps running strong – and so does a well-managed dividend fund.