MAIN vs ARCC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, MAIN (Main Street Capital Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ARCC offers the higher yield at 9.97%, ARCC has the higher dividend-safety score, and ARCC trades at the larger discount to fair value (+23%).
| Metric | MAIN | ARCC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 8.42% | 9.97% |
| Annual dividend | $4.38 | $1.92 |
| Payout ratio | 90% | 118% |
| Years of growth | 3 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 4.5% | 3.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 27% | -2% |
| Dividend safety score | 54 (C) | 57 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $37.84 | $23.68 |
| Upside to fair value | -27% | +23% |
| Frequency | monthly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $4.8B | $13.8B |
| P/E ratio | 11.0 | 11.8 |
Higher yield
ARCC
9.97%
Safer dividend
ARCC
Grade C
Faster growth
MAIN
4.5%
Better value
ARCC
+23% upside
MAIN vs ARCC — FAQ
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