CAT vs NSSC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, CAT (Caterpillar Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 7 head-to-head metrics. NSSC offers the higher yield at 1.72%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and NSSC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+1%).
| Metric | CAT | NSSC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.81% | 1.72% |
| Annual dividend | $6.52 | $0.61 |
| Payout ratio | 26% | 48% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 2 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.2% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 326% | 68% |
| Dividend safety score | 92 (A) | 70 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $492.64 | $36.75 |
| Upside to fair value | -40% | +1% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $376.3B | $1.3B |
| P/E ratio | 34.7 | 30.2 |
Higher yield
NSSC
1.72%
Safer dividend
CAT
Grade A
Faster growth
CAT
7.2%
Better value
NSSC
+1% upside
CAT vs NSSC — FAQ
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