SmarterDividends

MA vs STC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 7 head-to-head metrics. STC offers the higher yield at 3.28%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and STC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+32%).

MetricMASTC
Forward yield0.61%3.28%
Annual dividend$3.48$2.20
Payout ratio18%46%
Years of growth14 yr5 yr
5-yr dividend growth13.7%11.3%
5-yr total return64%5%
Dividend safety score88 (A)88 (A)
Fair value estimate$573.72$87.67
Upside to fair value+1%+32%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$502.2B$2.0B
P/E ratio31.614.7

Higher yield

STC

3.28%

Safer dividend

MA

Grade A

Faster growth

MA

13.7%

Better value

STC

+32% upside

MA vs STC — FAQ

See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.