MRK vs NVSEF: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, NVSEF (Novartis AG) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NVSEF offers the higher yield at 2.99%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and NVSEF trades at the larger discount to fair value (+23%).
| Metric | MRK | NVSEF |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.68% | 2.99% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $4.73 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 66% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 6 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 6.4% |
| 5-yr total return | 69% | 80% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 61 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $126.32 | $194.98 |
| Upside to fair value | -3% | +23% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $318.3B | $301.9B |
| P/E ratio | 35.7 | 22.7 |
Higher yield
NVSEF
2.99%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
NVSEF
+23% upside
MRK vs NVSEF — FAQ
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