Schwab International Small-Cap Equity ETF

SCHC

Market cap $5.38B

On Thursday, June 11, Schwab Asset Management announced that it cut down the expense ratios on four of its existing indexed ETFs. Each of these funds is a longstanding strategy in Schwab's collection, with a significant asset base and compelling track record.

WESTLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schwab Asset Management®, the asset management arm of The Charles Schwab Corporation and the fifth-largest provider1 of ETFs, today announced the reduction of operating expense ratios for four equity index ETFs: the Schwab U.S. Mid-Cap ETF (SCHM), Schwab U.S. Small-Cap ETF (SCHA), Schwab International Small-Cap Equity ETF (SCHC), and Schwab Emerging Markets Equity ETF (SCHE). The fee reductions are effective June 11, 2026. Out of Schwab Asset Management's 24 market-cap weighted, index equity and fixed income ETFs, 16 are now offered at only 3 basis points (bps).

These ETFs will soar if small-cap stocks roar back. These ETFs will soar if small-cap stocks roar back.

SCHC offers broad, low-cost exposure to international small-caps, an area currently trading at attractive valuations that could benefit from global supply chain diversification and a weaker U.S. dollar. However, the fund's passive, index-hugging approach has drawbacks, including the risk of holding unprofitable companies and over-diversification that may impair returns. Despite lackluster returns, we maintain a Hold rating on SCHC, recognizing the attractive valuations and potential long-term tailwinds for international small-caps.

While some general truth exists in the assertion that American investors should stick with U.S.-based investments for familiarity and performance reasons, the best international ETFs may provide a layer of intrigue for the adventurous. First and foremost, diversification may be a value attribute heading into broader market uncertainty.