ACT vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 7 head-to-head metrics. ACT offers the higher yield at 1.95%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and ACT trades at the larger discount to fair value (+103%).
| Metric | ACT | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.95% | 0.60% |
| Annual dividend | $0.96 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 3 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | — | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 125% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 80 (A) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $100.09 | $574.10 |
| Upside to fair value | +103% | -1% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $6.8B | $507.4B |
| P/E ratio | 10.4 | 31.8 |
Higher yield
ACT
1.95%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
ACT
+103% upside
ACT vs MA — FAQ
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