CAH vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, CAH (Cardinal Health, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.67%, CAH has the higher dividend-safety score, and CAH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+1%).
| Metric | CAH | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.90% | 2.67% |
| Annual dividend | $2.05 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 31% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 39 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 1.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 335% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 99 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $229.72 | $128.06 |
| Upside to fair value | +1% | +0% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $52.9B | $307.2B |
| P/E ratio | 34.8 | 36.0 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.67%
Safer dividend
CAH
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
CAH
+1% upside
CAH vs MRK — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.