Quest Diagnostics Inc vs Ecolab Inc. — how do they compare? Quest Diagnostics Inc trades at $237.51 (market cap $26.23B), while Ecolab Inc. trades at $285.5 (market cap $79.73B). The key difference: Ecolab Inc. is far larger — about 3× Quest Diagnostics Inc's market cap, and Quest Diagnostics Inc pays the higher dividend (1.45%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| DGX | ECL | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $26.23B | $79.73B |
Sector | Health | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $238.50 | $308.35 |
52-Week Low | $173.49 | $245.73 |
Enterprise Value | $31.99B | $88.51B |
Dividend Yield | 1.45% | 1.03% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Quest Diagnostics (DGX) trades at $238.35, down slightly by 0.06% today, but maintains a bullish technical trend with strong earnings momentum, having beaten EPS estimates in the last three quarters. Revenue grew to $11.04 billion in 2025, with net income reaching $992 million, and the company raised its 2026 outlook amid surging testing demand. Analyst consensus is a Buy with a $249.50 price target, though valuation multiples like a P/E of 25.3 suggest premium pricing.
The outlook for DGX is positive due to robust demand for diagnostic services, AI integration, and partnerships driving growth, but risks include margin pressure from lower-margin deals and high debt levels. Investors may find opportunity in sustained earnings beats and dividend payouts, yet should monitor competitive and cost pressures that could affect profitability.
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
Quest Diagnostics is a leading independent provider of diagnostic testing, information, and services in the U.S. The company generates over 95% of its revenue through clinical testing, anatomic pathology, esoteric testing, and substance abuse testing with specimens collected at its national network of roughly 2,300 patient service centers, as well as multiple doctors offices and hospitals. The firm also runs a much smaller diagnostic solutions segment that provides clinical trials testing, risk assessment services, and information technology solutions.
Read more on DGX →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 →