MRK vs SEM: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Aug 26, 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 3 of 4 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.39%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and SEM looks like the better value (its fair-value estimate is 31% above its share price).
Key facts: MRK vs SEM
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Aug 26, 2026, SmarterDividends grades MRK's dividend safety A (88/100) and SEM's D (44/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Aug 26, 2026, MRK has raised its dividend for 15 consecutive years and SEM for 0.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "MRK vs SEM: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Aug 26, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/mrk-vs-sem
| Metric | MRK | SEM |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.39% | — |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.38 |
| Payout ratio | 267% | — |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 64% | — |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 44 (D) |
| Fair value estimate | $121.12 | $21.63 |
| Upside to fair value | -15% | +31% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $351.3B | — |
| P/E ratio | 113.0 | — |
Higher yield
MRK
2.39%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
SEM
+31% upside
MRK vs SEM — FAQ
Is MRK or SEM a better dividend stock?
On the data, MRK wins more head-to-head categories (3 vs 1). MRK offers the higher yield (2.39%), while MRK has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, MRK or SEM?
MRK has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.39%, versus — for SEM.
Is MRK or SEM safer?
MRK has the higher dividend-safety score (88/100 vs 44/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
Is MRK or SEM better value right now?
As of Aug 26, 2026, SEM looks like the better value: its fair-value estimate is 31% above its share price (undervalued). For MRK, its fair-value estimate is 15% below its share price.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.