Dow Inc vs Ecolab Inc. — how do they compare? Dow Inc trades at $31.27 (market cap $22.09B), while Ecolab Inc. trades at $284.26 (market cap $79.73B). The key difference: Ecolab Inc. is far larger — about 3.6× Dow Inc's market cap, and Dow Inc pays the higher dividend (4.58%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| DOW | ECL | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $22.09B | $79.73B |
Sector | Basic Materials | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $41.87 | $308.35 |
52-Week Low | $20.65 | $245.73 |
Enterprise Value | $37.78B | $88.51B |
Dividend Yield | 4.58% | 1.03% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
DOW trades at $29.34, down 3.17% today, with technical indicators showing bearish momentum. The company faces fundamental challenges with negative net income margin of -3.13% and declining revenue from $56.9B in 2022 to $40.0B in 2025. Recent earnings beats provide some optimism, but cash flow from operations has weakened significantly from $7.5B in 2022 to $1.0B in 2025. The stock trades near the lower end of analyst price targets with consensus at $35.11.
DOW presents a mixed investment case with valuation metrics showing potential undervaluation (P/S 0.51) offset by profitability concerns. The chemical sector faces cyclical pressures, but recent dividend payments and earnings beats suggest operational resilience. Key risks include continued revenue decline and high debt levels approaching 30% of assets. Analyst sentiment remains cautious with only 33% buy ratings.
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
Dow Inc is a diversified chemical manufacturing company. It combining science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are essential to human progress. Dow's portfolio is comprised of six global business units, organized into three operating segments: Packaging & Specialty Plastics, Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure, and Performance Materials & Coatings.
Read more on DOW →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 →