Caterpillar Inc vs First Solar, Inc. — how do they compare? Caterpillar Inc trades at $859.4 (market cap $387.68B), while First Solar, Inc. trades at $227.61 (market cap $25.89B). The key difference: Caterpillar Inc is far larger — about 15× First Solar, Inc.'s market cap, and Caterpillar Inc pays a 0.77% dividend while First Solar, Inc. pays none. Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| CAT | FSLR | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $387.68B | $25.89B |
Sector | Industrials | Technology |
52-Week High | $1.06K | $318.30 |
52-Week Low | $407.79 | $180.05 |
Enterprise Value | $426.11B | $24.36B |
Dividend Yield | 0.77% | — |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Caterpillar (CAT) trades at $837.58, down 0.55% on the day, with a bearish technical signal but strong fundamental performance. Recent quarters have consistently beaten EPS estimates, with Q2 2026 EPS of $8.17 surpassing the $6.22 expectation. Revenue growth is supported by AI data center demand, contributing to a robust $67.59B in 2025 revenue. The stock is near key support at $831, with resistance at $850.
Outlook remains positive due to strong earnings momentum and AI-driven infrastructure demand, though elevated valuation ratios (P/E of 36.32) pose a risk. Analyst consensus is bullish with a $1,010 price target, but investors should monitor macroeconomic pressures and competitive threats. The dividend history and cash flow stability add defensive appeal.
First Solar (FSLR) trades at $228.27, down 4.62% on the day, amid mixed signals. The stock shows a bullish technical trend with strong moving averages, though RSI levels suggest potential overbought conditions. Fundamentally, the company reported robust revenue growth to $5.22B in 2025, with a net income margin of 29.27%, while recent earnings beat expectations in Q1 and Q2 2026. However, multiple class-action lawsuits filed in August 2026 create near-term legal overhang.
The outlook remains positive given analyst consensus favoring a buy rating with a $282.07 price target, implying significant upside. Key risks include legal proceedings and competitive pressures in the solar sector. Earnings growth and operational cash flow strength support long-term value, but investors should weigh legal uncertainties against fundamental strengths.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
Caterpillar Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets construction, mining, and forestry machinery. The Company also manufactures engines and other related parts for its equipment, and offers financing and insurance. Caterpillar distributes its products through a worldwide organization of dealers.
Read more on CAT →First Solar designs and manufactures solar photovoltaic panels, modules, and systems for use in utility-scale development projects. The company's solar modules use cadmium telluride to convert sunlight into electricity. This is commonly called thin-film technology. First Solar is the world's largest thin-film solar module manufacturer. It has production lines in Vietnam, Malaysia, the United States, and a new factory under construction in India.
Read more on FSLR →