ARDC vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of August 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARDC offers the higher yield at 10.91%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARDC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+85%).
| Metric | ARDC | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 10.91% | 0.61% |
| Annual dividend | $1.35 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 141% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 2.4% | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -23% | 64% |
| Dividend safety score | 45 (D) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $23.10 | $570.82 |
| Upside to fair value | +85% | +0% |
| Frequency | monthly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $297.7M | $502.6B |
| P/E ratio | 12.9 | 31.5 |
Higher yield
ARDC
10.91%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
ARDC
+85% upside
ARDC vs MA — FAQ
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