CI vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, CI (The Cigna Group) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 7 head-to-head metrics. CI offers the higher yield at 2.27%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and CI trades at the larger discount to fair value (+51%).
| Metric | CI | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.27% | 2.27% |
| Annual dividend | $6.24 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 25% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 5 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 106.7% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 29% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 79 (B) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $414.38 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +51% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $72.3B | $372.3B |
| P/E ratio | 11.3 | 120.7 |
Higher yield
CI
2.27%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
CI
106.7%
Better value
CI
+51% upside
CI vs MRK — FAQ
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