MRK vs WST: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.36%, WST has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-6%).
| Metric | MRK | WST |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.36% | 0.25% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $0.88 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 11% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 33 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 5.5% |
| 5-yr total return | 92% | -18% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 99 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $135.77 | $170.71 |
| Upside to fair value | -6% | -51% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $355.1B | $24.4B |
| P/E ratio | 115.1 | 44.3 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.36%
Safer dividend
WST
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-6% upside
MRK vs WST — FAQ
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