MRK vs RMD: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | MRK | RMD |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.61% | 1.23% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $2.40 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 22% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 13 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 7.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | -33% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $176.22 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | -10% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $323.7B | $28.3B |
| P/E ratio | 36.9 | 18.8 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
RMD
7.7%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
MRK vs RMD — FAQ
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