MRK vs VRBCF: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 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 | VRBCF |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.61% | 0.43% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.65 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 8% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 1 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | 12% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 68 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $365.72 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | -5% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $320.6B | $3.2B |
| P/E ratio | 36.8 | 18.7 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
MRK vs VRBCF — FAQ
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