MRK vs YARW: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Oct 18, 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 2 of 3 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.33%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: MRK vs YARW
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Oct 18, 2026, MRK has raised its dividend for 15 consecutive years and YARW for 0.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "MRK vs YARW: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Oct 18, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/mrk-vs-yarw
| Metric | MRK | YARW |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.33% | — |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $20.10 |
| Payout ratio | 267% | — |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | — |
| 5-yr total return | 95% | -98% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | — |
| Fair value estimate | $120.53 | — |
| Upside to fair value | -17% | — |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $360.1B | $170.4M |
| P/E ratio | 115.8 | — |
Higher yield
MRK
2.33%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
MRK vs YARW — FAQ
Is MRK or YARW a better dividend stock?
On the data, MRK wins more head-to-head categories (2 vs 1). MRK offers the higher yield (2.33%), 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 YARW?
MRK has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.33%, versus — for YARW.
Is MRK or YARW safer?
Compare each stock's payout ratio, growth streak and cut history on its detail page to judge safety.
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