CAT vs MLI: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MLI (Mueller Industries, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MLI offers the higher yield at 1.17%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and MLI trades at the larger discount to fair value (-1%).
| Metric | CAT | MLI |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.81% | 1.17% |
| Annual dividend | $6.52 | $0.70 |
| Payout ratio | 26% | 16% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 5 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.2% | 38.0% |
| 5-yr total return | 297% | 356% |
| Dividend safety score | 92 (A) | 58 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $492.78 | $59.19 |
| Upside to fair value | -39% | -1% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $373.3B | $13.3B |
| P/E ratio | 34.9 | 15.6 |
Higher yield
MLI
1.17%
Safer dividend
CAT
Grade A
Faster growth
MLI
38.0%
Better value
MLI
-1% upside
CAT vs MLI — FAQ
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