GILD 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. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.36%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and GILD trades at the larger discount to fair value (+7%).
| Metric | GILD | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.28% | 2.36% |
| Annual dividend | $3.28 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 43% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 10 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 106% | 92% |
| Dividend safety score | 82 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $153.33 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +7% | -6% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $178.2B | $355.1B |
| P/E ratio | — | 115.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.36%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
GILD
+7% upside
GILD vs MRK — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.