MA vs MCO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MCO offers the higher yield at 0.81%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and MA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+3%).
| Metric | MA | MCO |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.64% | 0.81% |
| Annual dividend | $3.48 | $4.12 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 28% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 13.7% | 10.9% |
| 5-yr total return | 57% | 34% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 87 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $558.71 | $270.92 |
| Upside to fair value | +3% | -47% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $483.7B | $88.3B |
| P/E ratio | 31.4 | 36.6 |
Higher yield
MCO
0.81%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
MA
+3% upside
MA vs MCO — FAQ
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