MRK vs NVSEF: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, NVSEF (Novartis AG) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NVSEF offers the higher yield at 2.88%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and NVSEF trades at the larger discount to fair value (+17%).
| Metric | MRK | NVSEF |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.23% | 2.88% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $4.73 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 70% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 6 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 6.4% |
| 5-yr total return | 100% | 111% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 61 (C) |
| Fair value estimate | $133.66 | $192.03 |
| Upside to fair value | -11% | +17% |
| Frequency | quarterly | annual |
| Market cap | $370.9B | $312.2B |
| P/E ratio | 122.2 | 24.8 |
Higher yield
NVSEF
2.88%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
NVSEF
+17% upside
MRK vs NVSEF — FAQ
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