Caterpillar Inc vs Howmet Aerospace Inc — how do they compare? Caterpillar Inc trades at $858.62 (market cap $387.68B), while Howmet Aerospace Inc trades at $282.56 (market cap $112.20B). The key difference: Caterpillar Inc is far larger — about 3.5× Howmet Aerospace Inc's market cap, and Caterpillar Inc pays the higher dividend (0.77%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| CAT | HWM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $387.68B | $112.20B |
Sector | Industrials | Industrials |
52-Week High | $1.06K | $291.28 |
52-Week Low | $407.79 | $171.00 |
Enterprise Value | $426.11B | $116.30B |
Dividend Yield | 0.77% | 0.2% |
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.
Howmet Aerospace (HWM) trades at $281.63, down 0.73% on the day, with strong technical support at $279 and resistance at $285. The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates, with Q2 2026 EPS of $1.33 exceeding expectations by 7.3%, driven by robust aerospace and defense demand. Analyst consensus remains strongly bullish with 84% buy ratings and a $334.63 price target, representing 19% upside potential.
Outlook remains positive with raised 2026 guidance and strong cash flow generation, though elevated valuation multiples (P/E 60.63) and significant capital expenditures present risks. The stock offers growth exposure to aerospace recovery but faces execution risks amid capacity expansion plans and supply chain challenges.
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 →Howmet Aerospace provides advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. It specializes in jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, and forged aluminum wheels.
Read more on HWM →