LH 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 7 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, LH has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | LH | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.90% | 2.31% |
| Annual dividend | $2.88 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 24% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | — | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 30% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 91 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $237.73 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | -26% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $26.0B | $362.4B |
| P/E ratio | 26.5 | 117.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
LH
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
LH vs MRK — FAQ
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