MRK vs NVS: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, NVS (Novartis AG) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NVS offers the higher yield at 3.10%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and NVS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+28%).
| Metric | MRK | NVS |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.86% | 3.10% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $4.74 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 68% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 3 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.8% | 5.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 53% | 68% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 61 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $129.20 | $195.99 |
| Upside to fair value | +9% | +28% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $294.0B | $292.1B |
| P/E ratio | 33.5 | 21.9 |
Higher yield
NVS
3.10%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.8%
Better value
NVS
+28% upside
MRK vs NVS — FAQ
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