SmarterDividends

ARES vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of August 2026, ARES and MA are closely matched. ARES offers the higher yield at 3.86%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and MA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+10%).

MetricARESMA
Forward yield3.86%0.58%
Annual dividend$5.40$3.48
Payout ratio227%18%
Years of growth9 yr14 yr
5-yr dividend growth22.9%13.7%
5-yr total return91%67%
Dividend safety score49 (D)87 (A)
Fair value estimate$82.34$641.25
Upside to fair value-42%+10%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$47.1B$525.1B
P/E ratio64.033.0

Higher yield

ARES

3.86%

Safer dividend

MA

Grade A

Faster growth

ARES

22.9%

Better value

MA

+10% upside

ARES vs MA — FAQ

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