Why I'm Loading Up on These 3 High-Dividend ETFs for Passive Income

Core Viewpoint - The equity market is undergoing a significant rotation in 2026, favoring dividend ETFs and previously underperforming sectors such as small caps, energy, and materials stocks [1][2]. Dividend ETFs Performance - Dividend stocks and ETFs are benefiting from the outperformance of value stocks and those with strong balance sheets, with yields of 3%-4% making dividend ETFs early winners in 2026 [2]. - Not all high-dividend ETFs are the same, and specific funds are highlighted as strong investment options for 2026 [2]. Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF - The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has seen a resurgence due to its focus on quality fundamentals, stable dividend growth, and above-average yield, making it a top performer in the U.S. dividend ETF category [4][7]. - The fund currently offers a yield of 3.7% and has a low expense ratio of 0.06%, making it an attractive long-term investment [6]. Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF - The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) employs a straightforward strategy of selecting the top half of dividend-paying stocks based on yield, which has proven effective for investors seeking higher yields [8][9]. - The fund has a diverse allocation across seven sectors, with a 2.5% yield that positions it well for the current market rotation [10][11]. SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 High Dividend ETF - The SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 High Dividend ETF (SPYD) focuses on the 80 highest-yielding securities from the S&P 500 and employs an equal-weighting strategy for diversification [13]. - With a yield of 4.5% and a low expense ratio of 0.07%, this ETF is among the most cost-effective options available, potentially benefiting from expected interest rate cuts in 2026 [15][16].