MRK vs NVS: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK and NVS are closely matched. NVS offers the higher yield at 3.46%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and NVS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+38%).
| Metric | MRK | NVS |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.36% | 3.46% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $4.74 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 72% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 3 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 5.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 92% | 68% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 60 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $188.85 |
| Upside to fair value | -6% | +38% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $355.1B | $260.7B |
| P/E ratio | 115.1 | 20.7 |
Higher yield
NVS
3.46%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
NVS
+38% upside
MRK vs NVS — FAQ
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