Ecolab Inc. vs Macy's Inc — how do they compare? Ecolab Inc. trades at $285.5 (market cap $79.73B), while Macy's Inc trades at $24.57 (market cap $6.68B). The key difference: Ecolab Inc. is far larger — about 11.9× Macy's Inc's market cap, and Macy's Inc pays the higher dividend (3.02%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| ECL | M | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $79.73B | $6.68B |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $308.35 | $26.21 |
52-Week Low | $245.73 | $12.11 |
Enterprise Value | $88.51B | $10.50B |
Dividend Yield | 1.03% | 3.02% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
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.
Macy's (M) trades at $25.40, up 1.07% daily, with a bullish technical signal and positive earnings momentum after beating estimates in three consecutive quarters. The stock shows attractive valuation with a P/E of 10.5 and P/S of 0.31, while recent news highlights institutional buying and turnaround progress under the 'Bold New Chapter' strategy.
Outlook is cautiously optimistic with potential upside to the $30 analyst high target, supported by cost discipline and store revamps. Risks include competitive retail pressures and consumer spending volatility, but solid cash flow and low debt provide stability. The stock offers value with a 2.94% net margin and 14.36% ROE.
Trailing returns across standard periods
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 →Founded in 1858 and based in New York City, Macy's operates 570 stores under the Macy's nameplate, 58 stores under the Bloomingdale's nameplate, and 160 freestanding Bluemercury specialty beauty stores (as of the end of fiscal-year 2021). Macy's also operates e-commerce sites and licenses two Bloomingdale's stores in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait. Women's apparel, accessories, shoes, cosmetics, and fragrances comprised 59% of Macy's 2021 sales.
Read more on M →