SmarterDividends

HQL vs V: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of Nov 8, 2026, V (Visa Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head metrics. HQL offers the higher yield at 12.38%, V has the higher dividend-safety score.

Key facts: HQL vs V

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 0.74% for Visa Inc. (V).
  • As of Nov 8, 2026, SmarterDividends grades HQL's dividend safety C (60/100) and V's A (93/100).
  • By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 8, 2026, HQL has raised its dividend for 0 consecutive years and V for 17.
  • As of Nov 8, 2026, HQL pays out 29% of its earnings as dividends and V pays out 22%.
Cite this page

SmarterDividends, "HQL vs V: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 8, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/hql-vs-v

MetricHQLV
Forward yield12.38%0.74%
Annual dividend$2.24$3.12
Payout ratio29%22%
Years of growth0 yr17 yr
5-yr dividend growth3.4%14.9%
5-yr total return-9%118%
Dividend safety score60 (C)93 (A)
Fair value estimate—$321.86
Upside to fair value—-24%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$550.1M$788.6B
P/E ratio2.734.3

Higher yield

HQL

12.38%

Safer dividend

V

Grade A

Faster growth

V

14.9%

HQL vs V — FAQ

Is HQL or V a better dividend stock?

On the data, V wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 1). HQL offers the higher yield (12.38%), while V 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 V?

HQL has the higher forward dividend yield at 12.38%, versus 0.74% for V.

Is HQL or V safer?

V has the higher dividend-safety score (93/100 vs 60/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.

See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.