GSK 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. GSK offers the higher yield at 3.50%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and GSK trades at the larger discount to fair value (+10%).
| Metric | GSK | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 3.50% | 2.61% |
| Annual dividend | $1.80 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 47% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 2 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | -4.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 26% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 54 (C) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $56.55 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | +10% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $102.8B | $323.7B |
| P/E ratio | 13.5 | 36.9 |
Higher yield
GSK
3.50%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
GSK
+10% upside
GSK vs MRK — FAQ
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