MA vs MCO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 7 head-to-head metrics. MCO offers the higher yield at 0.88%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and MA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+2%).
| Metric | MA | MCO |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.62% | 0.88% |
| Annual dividend | $3.48 | $4.12 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 25% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 13.7% | 10.9% |
| 5-yr total return | 68% | 16% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $574.22 | $290.97 |
| Upside to fair value | +2% | -38% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $495.2B | $81.2B |
| P/E ratio | 31.1 | 29.8 |
Higher yield
MCO
0.88%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
MA
+2% upside
MA vs MCO — FAQ
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