For investors focused on income and growth, combining the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) with handpicked dividend stocks offers strategic advantages. In my latest analysis, I present a dividend portfolio built with $25,000, using SCHD as the core (55%) and enhancing it with October’s top 10 high-dividend yield companies and five high-growth selections.

This diversified approach addresses SCHD’s sector limitations—like low exposure to real estate, materials, and utilities—by adding robust picks like Realty Income (O) and NextEra Energy (NEE). With an increased Weighted Average Dividend Yield of 4.01% (compared to SCHD’s 3.79%), this portfolio strengthens dividend income potential while diversifying risk across sectors and geographies.

Incorporating well-chosen stocks, such as Ares Capital (ARCC) with its 9.33% yield, this setup combines stability and growth, making it ideal for dividend-focused investors.

For a detailed breakdown of each selection and how this mix can boost your portfolio’s income-generating ability, visit my full article on Seeking Alpha.