ARCC vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 9.97%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+23%).
| Metric | ARCC | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 9.97% | 0.71% |
| 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 | -2% | 34% |
| Dividend safety score | 57 (C) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $23.68 | $554.23 |
| Upside to fair value | +23% | +13% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $13.8B | $432.9B |
| P/E ratio | 11.8 | 28.3 |
Higher yield
ARCC
9.97%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
ARCC
+23% upside
ARCC vs MA — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.