ARCC vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 9.73%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+14%).
| Metric | ARCC | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 9.73% | 0.61% |
| Annual dividend | $1.92 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 143% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.7% | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -3% | 64% |
| Dividend safety score | 57 (C) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $22.49 | $573.72 |
| Upside to fair value | +14% | +1% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $14.2B | $498.6B |
| P/E ratio | 14.7 | 31.3 |
Higher yield
ARCC
9.73%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
ARCC
+14% upside
ARCC vs MA — FAQ
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