KMDA vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of August 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.26%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and KMDA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+27%).
| Metric | KMDA | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.02% | 2.26% |
| Annual dividend | $0.17 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 66% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 1 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | — | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 55% | 103% |
| Dividend safety score | 75 (B) | 86 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $10.45 | $109.02 |
| Upside to fair value | +27% | -29% |
| Frequency | annual | quarterly |
| Market cap | $497.9M | $386.0B |
| P/E ratio | 22.1 | 120.3 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.26%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
KMDA
+27% upside
KMDA vs MRK — FAQ
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