MA vs RCS: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. RCS offers the higher yield at 9.72%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and RCS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+159%).
| Metric | MA | RCS |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.62% | 9.72% |
| Annual dividend | $3.48 | $0.48 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 89% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 13.7% | -6.2% |
| 5-yr total return | 68% | -32% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 57 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $574.22 | $12.78 |
| Upside to fair value | +2% | +159% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $491.5B | $232.0M |
| P/E ratio | 30.9 | 9.1 |
Higher yield
RCS
9.72%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
RCS
+159% upside
MA vs RCS — FAQ
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