ARCC vs MS: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, MS (Morgan Stanley) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 7 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 9.97%, MS has the higher dividend-safety score, and MS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+32%).
| Metric | ARCC | MS |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 9.97% | 1.87% |
| Annual dividend | $1.92 | $4.00 |
| Payout ratio | 118% | 36% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 12 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.7% | 22.4% |
| 5-yr total return | -2% | 133% |
| Dividend safety score | 57 (C) | 80 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $23.68 | $283.58 |
| Upside to fair value | +23% | +32% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $13.8B | $337.6B |
| P/E ratio | 11.8 | 19.4 |
Higher yield
ARCC
9.97%
Safer dividend
MS
Grade A
Faster growth
MS
22.4%
Better value
MS
+32% upside
ARCC vs MS — FAQ
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