Schwab International Equity ETF vs iShares Emerging Markets ETF

Schwab International Equity ETF (SCHF) emerges as the better choice for most investors due to its significantly lower expense ratio of 0.03% versus iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF's (EEM) 0.72%, along with superior 5-year returns and lower volatility. While EEM offers concentrated emerging-market exposure with higher growth potential, it carries greater risk and political uncertainty. The two funds target different markets—SCHF focuses on developed non-U.S. economies while EEM targets high-growth developing markets.