ARCC vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 10.08%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+26%).
| Metric | ARCC | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 10.08% | 0.62% |
| Annual dividend | $1.92 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 118% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.7% | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -6% | 56% |
| Dividend safety score | 55 (C) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $23.64 | $558.11 |
| Upside to fair value | +26% | +3% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $13.4B | $497.7B |
| P/E ratio | 11.7 | 32.6 |
Higher yield
ARCC
10.08%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
ARCC
+26% upside
ARCC vs MA — FAQ
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