MA vs WU: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Oct 18, 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head metrics. WU offers the higher yield at 15.24%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: MA vs WU
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Oct 18, 2026, The Western Union Company (WU) has the higher forward dividend yield at 15.24%, versus 0.56% for Mastercard Incorporated (MA).
- As of Oct 18, 2026, SmarterDividends grades MA's dividend safety A (89/100) and WU's B (75/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Oct 18, 2026, MA has raised its dividend for 14 consecutive years and WU for 0.
- As of Oct 18, 2026, MA pays out 18% of its earnings as dividends and WU pays out 76%.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "MA vs WU: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Oct 18, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/ma-vs-wu
| Metric | MA | WU |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.56% | 15.24% |
| Annual dividend | $3.48 | $0.94 |
| Payout ratio | 18% | 76% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 13.7% | 0.9% |
| 5-yr total return | 96% | -61% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 75 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $474.95 | — |
| Upside to fair value | -23% | — |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $540.9B | $1.9B |
| P/E ratio | 34.0 | 5.0 |
Higher yield
WU
15.24%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
MA vs WU — FAQ
Is MA or WU a better dividend stock?
On the data, MA wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 1). WU offers the higher yield (15.24%), while MA has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, MA or WU?
WU has the higher forward dividend yield at 15.24%, versus 0.56% for MA.
Is MA or WU safer?
MA has the higher dividend-safety score (89/100 vs 75/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
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