Quest Diagnostics Inc vs Howmet Aerospace Inc — how do they compare? Quest Diagnostics Inc trades at $204.99 (market cap $22.80B), while Howmet Aerospace Inc trades at $274.92 (market cap $110.74B). The key difference: Howmet Aerospace Inc is far larger — about 4.9× Quest Diagnostics Inc's market cap, and Quest Diagnostics Inc pays the higher dividend (1.67%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| DGX | HWM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $22.80B | $110.74B |
Sector | Health | Industrials |
52-Week High | $216.02 | $283.23 |
52-Week Low | $166.42 | $171.00 |
Enterprise Value | $28.82B | $112.99B |
Dividend Yield | 1.67% | 0.17% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Quest Diagnostics (DGX) trades at $207.35, showing minimal daily movement with a slight decline of 0.04%. The stock maintains a bullish technical stance with recent earnings beats and analyst consensus pointing to upside potential. Recent developments include New York State approval for Haystack MRD testing and strong momentum across diagnostic channels. Revenue growth accelerated to $11.04 billion in 2025 with consistent profitability margins around 9%.
DGX presents a balanced investment case with 38% analyst buy ratings and a $227.75 price target suggesting 10% upside. The company demonstrates steady revenue growth and operational efficiency, though elevated debt levels and policy risks require monitoring. Second quarter earnings on July 23, 2026, will be crucial for validating current momentum and growth trajectory.
Howmet Aerospace (HWM) trades at $271.28, up 0.16% on the day, with a neutral technical signal but strong fundamental performance. The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates in recent quarters, with Q1 2026 EPS of $1.22 exceeding expectations. Revenue growth and robust profit margins, including a 20.22% net income margin, support its premium valuation multiples. Recent news highlights strength in commercial aerospace demand as a key growth driver.
The outlook remains positive given analyst consensus with 84% buy ratings and a $317.63 price target, suggesting ~17% upside. However, elevated valuation ratios like a P/E of 64.22 pose risks if growth slows. Key catalysts include Q2 2026 results on August 6, 2026, while reliance on aerospace cycles and competitive pressures are monitoring points for investors.
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 →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 →