Danaher Corporation vs Howmet Aerospace Inc — how do they compare? Danaher Corporation trades at $201.69 (market cap $140.88B), while Howmet Aerospace Inc trades at $274.87 (market cap $110.74B). The key difference: Danaher Corporation is the larger of the two by market cap, and Danaher Corporation pays the higher dividend (0.8%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| DHR | HWM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $140.88B | $110.74B |
Sector | Health | Industrials |
52-Week High | $242.05 | $283.23 |
52-Week Low | $161.91 | $171.00 |
Enterprise Value | $153.66B | $112.99B |
Dividend Yield | 0.8% | 0.17% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Danaher (DHR) trades at $200.16, up 0.56% today, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and strong analyst support. The company reported Q1 2026 EPS of $2.06, beating estimates of $1.94, marking the third consecutive quarterly beat. Revenue for 2025 was $24.57 billion with a net income margin of 14.89%, though margins have compressed from prior years. Recent news includes the acquisition of Masimo and a $172.5 million legal settlement finalized in April 2026.
The outlook remains positive with a consensus price target of $211.33, implying ~5.6% upside, supported by 69% buy ratings. Key risks include margin pressure, integration challenges from acquisitions, and macroeconomic sensitivity. The stock offers a dividend yield from its $0.40 quarterly payout, with solid cash flow generation offsetting debt levels.
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
In 1984, Danaher's founders transformed a real estate organization into an industrial-focused manufacturing company. Through a series of mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures, including the Fortive separation in 2016, Danaher now focuses primarily on manufacturing scientific instruments and consumables in three segments: life sciences, diagnostics, and environmental and applied solutions. In late 2019, Danaher separated from its dental business through an initial public offering process, and in early 2020, it acquired GE's Biopharma business, now called Cytiva, which added to its life sciences segment.
Read more on DHR →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 →