GILD vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.58%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and GILD trades at the larger discount to fair value (+31%).
| Metric | GILD | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.44% | 2.58% |
| Annual dividend | $3.28 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 43% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 10 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 3.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 78% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 85 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $169.85 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | +31% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $164.8B | $322.0B |
| P/E ratio | 18.3 | 37.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.58%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
GILD
+31% upside
GILD vs MRK — FAQ
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