SCHD Is Up 20% and Offers Investors a Compelling Yield. But These 3 Dividend Stocks Could Be Even Better Buys Now.

Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has outperformed the S&P 500 in 2026 with a 20% gain and 3% yield. However, individual dividend stocks like PepsiCo, Enterprise Products Partners, and Realty Income offer higher yields (4.5%-5.8%) and may be more attractive for income-focused investors seeking better returns.