The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD +0.16%) has been a well-regarded dividend exchange-traded fund (ETF). Its screening process considers balance sheet fundamentals, dividend history, and yield to identify top dividend stocks. From its inception in late 2011 through 2022, the fund performed well. However, the dominance of tech stocks from 2023 to 2025 affected its performance. In 2026, the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF has regained its position as a leader within the dividend ETF category. The long-term investment case for SCHD is straightforward, focusing on income, quality, and value. The decision to buy it now depends on the economic outlook and the sustainability of the trend towards artificial intelligence (AI) stocks. SCHD's suitability as a high-quality income fund is not in question, but whether its investment style will remain favorable in the coming months is. Tech stocks and AI stocks experienced rapid growth in the years before 2026. This created a risk-friendly environment that led to record highs. While SCHD delivered positive returns, they were lower than those of tech and growth ETFs. This changed at the beginning of this year. The question is whether its investment style is likely to be in favor over the next six to 12 months. The economic environment and the performance of AI stocks will be key factors in the future of the fund.