ARCC vs MAIN: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MAIN (Main Street Capital Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 10.32%, MAIN has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+26%).
| Metric | ARCC | MAIN |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 10.32% | 8.19% |
| Annual dividend | $1.92 | $4.38 |
| Payout ratio | 118% | 90% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 3 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.7% | 5.2% |
| 5-yr total return | -6% | 29% |
| Dividend safety score | 55 (C) | 58 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $23.64 | $37.95 |
| Upside to fair value | +26% | -29% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $13.5B | $5.0B |
| P/E ratio | 11.5 | 11.3 |
Higher yield
ARCC
10.32%
Safer dividend
MAIN
Grade C
Faster growth
MAIN
5.2%
Better value
ARCC
+26% upside
ARCC vs MAIN — FAQ
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