MA vs NKX: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 7 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NKX offers the higher yield at 7.82%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and MA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+2%).
| Metric | MA | NKX |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.62% | 7.82% |
| Annual dividend | $3.48 | $0.86 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 212% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 2 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 13.7% | 7.2% |
| 5-yr total return | 68% | -31% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 51 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $574.22 | $11.30 |
| Upside to fair value | +2% | +0% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $491.5B | $614.9M |
| P/E ratio | 30.9 | 25.4 |
Higher yield
NKX
7.82%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
MA
+2% upside
MA vs NKX — FAQ
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