Ares Capital Corporation vs Star Bulk Carriers Corp — how do they compare? Ares Capital Corporation trades at $19.96 (market cap $14.34B), while Star Bulk Carriers Corp trades at $27.66 (market cap $3.09B). The key difference: Ares Capital Corporation is far larger — about 4.6× Star Bulk Carriers Corp's market cap, and Ares Capital Corporation pays the higher dividend (9.61%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| ARCC | SBLK | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $14.34B | $3.09B |
Sector | Financials | Industrials |
52-Week High | $22.68 | $29.15 |
52-Week Low | $17.45 | $16.79 |
Dividend Yield | 9.61% | 6.79% |
Enterprise Value | — | $3.77B |
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Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK) trades at $28.90, up 1.08% on the day, with a bullish technical outlook supported by moving averages. The company reported strong Q2 2026 results, beating EPS estimates with $1.21 per share, and declared a $0.90 dividend. Fundamentals show robust profitability with a net income margin of 23.87% and a P/E ratio of 11.15, indicating potential value. Recent news highlights the termination of a vessel sale agreement with Diana Shipping, though the impact appears neutral.
The outlook for SBLK is positive, driven by strong earnings growth, healthy cash flow, and a favorable analyst consensus with 58.34% buy ratings. Key opportunities include high dividend yields and operational efficiency, while risks involve dry bulk rate volatility and competitive pressures in the shipping sector. Investors should weigh the company's solid financials against industry cyclicality.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
Ares Capital Corp is a United States-based closed-ended specialty finance company. Its investment objective is to generate both current income and capital appreciation through debt and equity investments. The company focuses on investing primarily in U.S. middle-market companies with investment opportunities as well as in larger companies. Its portfolio comprises of first lien senior secured loans, second lien senior secured loans, and mezzanine debt (subordinated unsecured loan), which may include equity components that are diversified by industry and sector. The company may invest in preferred and common equity investments to a lesser proportion. Its revenue mainly consists of interest and dividend income received from the investment made.
Read more on ARCC →Star Bulk Carriers Corp. is a global shipping company specializing in the seaborne transportation of dry bulk commodities. The company owns and operates a large fleet of bulk carriers, primarily transporting major commodities such as iron ore, coal, and grain. SBLK focuses on the Capesize, Post Panamax, and Kamsarmax vessel segments, providing critical logistical services to commodity producers and consumers worldwide.
Read more on SBLK →