SmarterDividends

LNC vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. LNC offers the higher yield at 4.38%, LNC has the higher dividend-safety score, and MA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+2%).

MetricLNCMA
Forward yield4.38%0.62%
Annual dividend$1.80$3.48
Payout ratio15%18%
Years of growth0 yr14 yr
5-yr dividend growth2.4%13.7%
5-yr total return-42%68%
Dividend safety score89 (A)88 (A)
Fair value estimate$34.36$574.22
Upside to fair value-19%+2%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$7.9B$491.5B
P/E ratio3.530.9

Higher yield

LNC

4.38%

Safer dividend

LNC

Grade A

Faster growth

MA

13.7%

Better value

MA

+2% upside

LNC vs MA — FAQ

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