SmarterDividends

COR vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and COR trades at the larger discount to fair value (+38%).

MetricCORMRK
Forward yield0.77%2.61%
Annual dividend$2.40$3.40
Payout ratio18%94%
Years of growth3 yr15 yr
5-yr dividend growth-7.3%6.7%
5-yr total return154%72%
Dividend safety score89 (A)90 (A)
Fair value estimate$426.56$128.13
Upside to fair value+38%-2%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$60.3B$323.7B
P/E ratio23.736.9

Higher yield

MRK

2.61%

Safer dividend

MRK

Grade A

Faster growth

MRK

6.7%

Better value

COR

+38% upside

COR vs MRK — FAQ

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