BHP Billiton Limited vs Ecolab Inc. — how do they compare? BHP Billiton Limited trades at $90.17 (market cap $227.94B), while Ecolab Inc. trades at $285.5 (market cap $79.73B). The key difference: BHP Billiton Limited is far larger — about 2.9× Ecolab Inc.'s market cap, and BHP Billiton Limited pays the higher dividend (2.94%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| BHP | ECL | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $227.94B | $79.73B |
Sector | Basic Materials | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $93.15 | $308.35 |
52-Week Low | $52.14 | $245.73 |
Enterprise Value | $242.14B | $88.51B |
Dividend Yield | 2.94% | 1.03% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
BHP trades at $90.41, up 2.86% today, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and strong support at $88-89. The company maintains solid profitability with 18.97% net income margin and 20.13% ROE, though recent earnings showed a Q4 2025 miss. Current labor strikes at Port Hedland operations pose near-term operational risks while copper production declines in Chile.
BHP presents a mixed outlook with strong fundamentals offset by operational challenges. The stock's valuation appears reasonable with P/E of 22.46 and EV/EBITDA of 8.24, but analyst consensus leans cautious with 64.5% hold ratings. Key opportunities include AI-driven copper demand growth, while risks center on labor disputes and production volatility.
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
BHP Group Limited operates as a mining company. The Company engages in the exploration, development, production, and processing of iron ore, metallurgical coal, and copper. BHP Group serves customers worldwide.
Read more on BHP →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 →