MRK vs STE: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK and STE are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, STE has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | MRK | STE |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.61% | 1.18% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $2.52 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 31% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 20 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 8.9% |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | -0% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 93 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $171.34 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | -20% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $323.7B | $20.9B |
| P/E ratio | 36.9 | 27.0 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
STE
Grade A
Faster growth
STE
8.9%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
MRK vs STE — FAQ
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