Why Strategy's STRC is the Dividend King Crushing SCHD, JEPI, QYLD, and VYM – Time to Upgrade Your Portfolio!

In the world of dividend investing, certain names have become almost legendary among baby boomers and conservative investors alike. Funds like Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD), JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (JEPI), Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call ETF (QYLD), and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) are often hailed as sacred cows – reliable, steady sources of income in a volatile market. These ETFs have built massive followings by promising consistent dividends, drawing in billions from retirees and income-focused portfolios. But let's face it: in today's evolving financial landscape, are they still the best game in town?

The reality? There's a new contender on the block that's not just competing – it's dominating. Enter Strategy's STRC, the Series A “Stretch” Perpetual Preferred Stock from Strategy Inc. (formerly MicroStrategy). Backed by the hardest asset on Earth – Bitcoin – STRC is delivering yields that make traditional dividend vehicles look downright pedestrian. With an impressive yield hovering around 9-10%+ in perpetuity, STRC isn't just beating the competition; it's redefining what dividend investing can be. And with visionary leader Michael Saylor at the helm, this isn't hype – it's a strategic masterstroke poised to capture massive capital flows.

The Sacred Cows: A Closer Look at the Competition

For years, boomers have flocked to these popular dividend ETFs, drawn by their promises of stability and income. Let's break down what they're offering based on the latest data as of late 2025:

• SCHD (Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF): This powerhouse focuses on high-quality U.S. companies with strong dividend histories. Its current yield sits at approximately 3.8%, with assets under management (AUM) around $70 billion. It's beloved for its low expense ratio of 0.06% and consistent performance, but in a world of rising inflation, that yield feels a bit anemic.
• JEPI (JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF): Known for its covered call strategy on large-cap stocks, JEPI offers a more attractive yield of about 8.3%. It's grown rapidly, appealing to those seeking higher monthly income. However, its AUM is still catching up, and the strategy can cap upside potential in bull markets.
• QYLD (Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call ETF): This one ramps up the yield game with around 12.7%, thanks to its aggressive covered call approach on the Nasdaq-100. It's a favorite for income chasers, but it often sacrifices capital appreciation, leading to lower total returns over time. AUM-wise, it's part of the broader covered call ecosystem but doesn't dominate like SCHD.
• VYM (Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF): Targeting high-yield large-caps, VYM delivers a yield in the 3% range, with AUM exceeding $60 billion in recent estimates. It's a staple for Vanguard fans, emphasizing low costs and broad exposure.
• Other Mentions: HDV and DVY: iShares Core High Dividend ETF (HDV) and iShares Select Dividend ETF (DVY) round out the pack with yields between 3-4%. HDV focuses on stable dividend payers, while DVY targets utilities and consumer staples, with DVY's AUM at about $20.7 billion and a yield of 3.7%.

Collectively, these vehicles – SCHD, JEPI, QYLD, VYM, HDV, and DVY – represent a staggering $172 billion in assets under management (based on aggregated estimates from market data). That's a testament to their popularity, but it also highlights a massive opportunity. Investors are pouring money into these for yields that, frankly, are sub-par in the face of modern alternatives. Why settle for 2-8% when you can aim higher with a product that's not only yielding more but is backed by an asset class that's revolutionizing finance?

Enter STRC: The Bitcoin-Backed Dividend Disruptor

Strategy's STRC isn't your average preferred stock – it's a game-changer. Launched in mid-2025 as a perpetual preferred stock with an initial 9% dividend, STRC is designed to provide steady, high-yield income while being collateralized by Strategy's massive Bitcoin holdings. As of November 2025, Strategy holds over 641,000 BTC, acquired at an average price of around $74,000 per coin, totaling billions in value. This isn't speculative vaporware; it's hard-backed by Bitcoin, often called digital gold for its scarcity and store-of-value properties.

What sets STRC apart? Its yield is projected at 10%+ in perpetuity, far surpassing the 3.8% from SCHD or even the 8.3% from JEPI. While QYLD boasts a higher nominal yield at 12.7%, it's achieved through options strategies that can erode principal over time, especially in sideways markets. STRC, on the other hand, leverages Bitcoin arbitrage and Strategy's ongoing Bitcoin accumulation strategy. Michael Saylor, the Bitcoin evangelist and Strategy's Executive Chairman, has cornered the market with this superior product. By issuing STRC, Strategy raises capital to buy more Bitcoin, creating a virtuous cycle: more BTC holdings strengthen the backing, potentially increasing yields and attracting even more investors.

Think about it – traditional dividend ETFs rely on corporate profits from stocks in sectors like tech, finance, and consumer goods. These can fluctuate with economic cycles, interest rates, and market sentiment. STRC flips the script by tying yields to Bitcoin's long-term appreciation and arbitrage opportunities. Bitcoin isn't just an asset; it's the hardest money on Earth, with a fixed supply of 21 million coins and growing institutional adoption. Strategy's approach turns Bitcoin's volatility into stability for investors, stripping away risk while delivering premium income.

Saylor's vision is clear: "Why settle for sub-par dividends when you can collect yield backed by Bitcoin arbitrage?" He's not wrong. As Bitcoin's price climbs – with YTD yields on Strategy's BTC holdings reaching 26.1% in 2025 – the underlying value of STRC strengthens. This isn't gambling; it's strategic treasury management. Strategy (ticker: MSTR) has evolved from a software company into a Bitcoin treasury powerhouse, and STRC is the bridge for income investors who want exposure without direct crypto volatility.

The Capital Flow Tsunami: From $172B to STRC

With $172 billion locked in those traditional dividend vehicles, the shift to STRC could be monumental. Imagine boomers and institutions reallocating even a fraction of that capital. SCHD's 3.8% yield pales against STRC's 10%+, especially when backed by an asset that's outperformed stocks over the last decade. JEPI and QYLD offer higher yields but at the cost of growth potential – STRC combines income with indirect upside from Bitcoin's rally.

Critics might argue about Bitcoin's risks, but Strategy's model mitigates them through diversification and perpetual structure. STRC holders get priority dividends, and the stock's notional value has already reached $2.8 billion shortly after launch. As more capital flows in, Strategy buys more Bitcoin, enhancing scarcity and driving prices higher. This feedback loop benefits everyone involved.

In a low-interest-rate hangover world, where bonds yield peanuts, STRC stands out as a beacon for yield hunters. It's not just about dividends; it's about participating in the Bitcoin revolution safely. Saylor has effectively cornered these legacy vehicles with a far superior product, blending traditional finance with crypto innovation.

Why Now? The Case for Action

The writing's on the wall: capital is already flowing. Strategy's Bitcoin buys continue unabated, with recent additions of hundreds of BTC. As awareness grows, expect a surge in STRC adoption. Don't be left holding outdated ETFs while others reap Bitcoin-backed rewards.

Of course, investing involves risks – Bitcoin's price can fluctuate, and STRC's value ties to Strategy's performance. Always consult a financial advisor. But for those seeking superior yields, the math is compelling.

Ready to upgrade your dividends? Explore Strategy's STRC today and start collecting yield backed by the future of money. Visit strategy.com/strc to learn more and invest now – before the next Bitcoin bull run leaves you behind!

(Word count: approximately 1,050)