HQL vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Nov 8, 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head metrics. HQL offers the higher yield at 12.38%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: HQL vs MA
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Nov 8, 2026, Abrdn Life Sciences Investors (HQL) has the higher forward dividend yield at 12.38%, versus 0.53% for Mastercard Incorporated (MA).
- As of Nov 8, 2026, SmarterDividends grades HQL's dividend safety C (60/100) and MA's A (89/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 8, 2026, HQL has raised its dividend for 0 consecutive years and MA for 14.
- As of Nov 8, 2026, HQL pays out 29% of its earnings as dividends and MA pays out 18%.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "HQL vs MA: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 8, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/hql-vs-ma
| Metric | HQL | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 12.38% | 0.53% |
| Annual dividend | $2.24 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 29% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.4% | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -9% | 107% |
| Dividend safety score | 60 (C) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | — | $499.25 |
| Upside to fair value | — | -24% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $550.1M | $568.6B |
| P/E ratio | 2.7 | 34.2 |
Higher yield
HQL
12.38%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
HQL vs MA — FAQ
Is HQL or MA a better dividend stock?
On the data, MA wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 1). HQL offers the higher yield (12.38%), while MA has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, HQL or MA?
HQL has the higher forward dividend yield at 12.38%, versus 0.53% for MA.
Is HQL or MA safer?
MA has the higher dividend-safety score (89/100 vs 60/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
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