SmarterDividends

BAX vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 7 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score.

MetricBAXMRK
Forward yield0.18%2.31%
Annual dividend$0.04$3.40
Payout ratio308%269%
Years of growth0 yr15 yr
5-yr dividend growth-11.4%6.7%
5-yr total return-71%67%
Dividend safety score60 (C)88 (A)
Fair value estimate$135.77
Upside to fair value-8%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$11.8B$362.4B
P/E ratio117.5

Higher yield

MRK

2.31%

Safer dividend

MRK

Grade A

Faster growth

MRK

6.7%

BAX vs MRK — FAQ

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