CAT vs NL: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, CAT (Caterpillar Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NL offers the higher yield at 6.78%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and NL trades at the larger discount to fair value (+64%).
| Metric | CAT | NL |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.74% | 6.78% |
| Annual dividend | $6.52 | $0.40 |
| Payout ratio | 30% | 175% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 2 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.2% | 17.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 317% | -14% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 57 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $485.27 | $9.69 |
| Upside to fair value | -45% | +64% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $398.1B | $280.2M |
| P/E ratio | 43.9 | — |
Higher yield
NL
6.78%
Safer dividend
CAT
Grade A
Faster growth
NL
17.6%
Better value
NL
+64% upside
CAT vs NL — FAQ
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