GSK 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. GSK offers the higher yield at 3.62%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and GSK trades at the larger discount to fair value (+9%).
| Metric | GSK | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 3.62% | 2.31% |
| Annual dividend | $1.82 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 57% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 2 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | -4.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 19% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 55 (C) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $54.84 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +9% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $100.6B | $362.4B |
| P/E ratio | 15.9 | 117.5 |
Higher yield
GSK
3.62%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
GSK
+9% upside
GSK vs MRK — FAQ
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