FMS vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. FMS offers the higher yield at 3.89%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and FMS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+161%).
| Metric | FMS | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 3.89% | 2.30% |
| Annual dividend | $0.87 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 45% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 2 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 2.9% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -33% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 61 (C) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $58.00 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +161% | -8% |
| Frequency | annual | quarterly |
| Market cap | $11.9B | $368.3B |
| P/E ratio | 11.7 | 119.4 |
Higher yield
FMS
3.89%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
FMS
+161% upside
FMS vs MRK — FAQ
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