MRK vs PHG: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 7 head-to-head metrics. PHG offers the higher yield at 4.10%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and PHG trades at the larger discount to fair value (+35%).
| Metric | MRK | PHG |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 4.10% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.01 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 76% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 1 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | -48% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 58 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $33.21 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | +35% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $362.4B | $24.1B |
| P/E ratio | 117.5 | 18.8 |
Higher yield
PHG
4.10%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
PHG
+35% upside
MRK vs PHG — FAQ
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