MRK vs STE: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK and STE are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, STE has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | MRK | STE |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 1.26% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $2.58 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 31% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 20 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 8.9% |
| 5-yr total return | 67% | -12% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 94 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $179.76 |
| Upside to fair value | -8% | -12% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $362.4B | $20.0B |
| P/E ratio | 117.5 | 25.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
STE
Grade A
Faster growth
STE
8.9%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
MRK vs STE — FAQ
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