AstraZeneca plc vs Ecolab Inc. — how do they compare? AstraZeneca plc trades at $159.05 (market cap $250.84B), while Ecolab Inc. trades at $284.55 (market cap $79.73B). The key difference: AstraZeneca plc is far larger — about 3.1× Ecolab Inc.'s market cap, and AstraZeneca plc pays the higher dividend (1.97%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| AZN | ECL | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $250.84B | $79.73B |
Sector | Health | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $209.48 | $308.35 |
52-Week Low | $147.06 | $245.73 |
Enterprise Value | $278.12B | $88.51B |
Dividend Yield | 1.97% | 1.03% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
AstraZeneca (AZN) trades at $161.42, up 0.22% today, amid bearish technical signals and merger speculation. The stock shows strong fundamentals with revenue growth to $58.74B in 2025 and net income of $10.23B, supported by a P/E of 24.16 and robust profitability margins. Recent news highlights potential talks with Bristol Myers Squibb, though a senior source denied ongoing discussions (Reuters, 2026-08-05).
The outlook is mixed: solid earnings beats and a 47.5% analyst buy rating support upside, but technical weakness and merger uncertainty pose near-term risks. Long-term growth hinges on execution amid competitive and regulatory pressures, with the stock offering value if merger rumors subside and fundamentals prevail.
ECL trades at $285.17, up 0.6% today, with a bullish technical signal and strong analyst support. The company reported Q2 2026 EPS of $2.09, beating estimates, and raised full-year guidance. Revenue growth remains steady, with a net income margin of 12.57% and robust cash flow from operations of $2.95B in 2025. Recent news highlights dividend declarations and institutional buying interest.
Outlook is positive with a consensus price target of $327.90, implying 15% upside. Risks include elevated valuation multiples and potential margin pressure from input costs. The stock's momentum is supported by earnings beats and strategic acquisitions, but investors should monitor debt levels and competitive dynamics in the water and hygiene sector.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across several major therapeutic classes, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, and immunology. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its sales.
Read more on AZN →Ecolab produces and markets cleaning and sanitation products for the hospitality, healthcare, and industrial markets. The firm is the global market share leader in this category with a wide array of products and services, including dish and laundry washing systems, pest control, and infection control products. The company has a strong hold on the U.S. market and is looking to increase its profitability abroad. Additionally, Ecolab serves customers in water, manufacturing, and life sciences end markets, selling customized solutions.
Read more on ECL →