MRK vs NVS: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK and NVS are closely matched. NVS offers the higher yield at 2.97%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and NVS trades at the larger discount to fair value (+23%).
| Metric | MRK | NVS |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.58% | 2.97% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $4.74 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 72% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 3 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 5.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | 68% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 60 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $190.74 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | +23% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $322.0B | $301.9B |
| P/E ratio | 37.1 | 24.1 |
Higher yield
NVS
2.97%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
NVS
+23% upside
MRK vs NVS — FAQ
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