MRK vs PHG: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 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 3.87%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and PHG trades at the larger discount to fair value (+4%).
| Metric | MRK | PHG |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.61% | 3.87% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.01 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 85% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 1 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | -43% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 56 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $27.33 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | +4% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $323.7B | $25.4B |
| P/E ratio | 36.9 | 23.0 |
Higher yield
PHG
3.87%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
PHG
+4% upside
MRK vs PHG — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.