Ecolab Inc. vs PulteGroup, Inc. — how do they compare? Ecolab Inc. trades at $285.5 (market cap $79.73B), while PulteGroup, Inc. trades at $132.77 (market cap $24.77B). The key difference: Ecolab Inc. is far larger — about 3.2× PulteGroup, Inc.'s market cap, and Ecolab Inc. pays the higher dividend (1.03%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| ECL | PHM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $79.73B | $24.77B |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $308.35 | $142.56 |
52-Week Low | $245.73 | $110.11 |
Enterprise Value | $88.51B | $25.19B |
Dividend Yield | 1.03% | 0.8% |
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.
PulteGroup (PHM) trades at $132.90, up 2.59% today, with a bullish technical signal and support near $131. The stock shows solid fundamentals with a P/E of 13.58 and net income margin of 11.62%, though recent quarters saw mixed earnings results. The company expanded into Northwest Florida and reported a Q2 2026 EPS beat, while cash flow trends remain positive.
Outlook is cautiously optimistic with a consensus price target of $137.20 offering modest upside. Risks include housing market pressure and margin declines, but strong institutional interest and a moderate buy rating suggest resilience. The stock presents a value opportunity amid industry headwinds.
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 →PulteGroup Inc is one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, operating in 40 markets across 23 states. The company mainly builds single-family detached homes (85% of unit sales) and offers products to entry-level, move-up, and active-adult buyers. PulteGroup offers homebuyers mortgage financing and title agency services through its financial services segment. The company is headquartered in Atlanta.
Read more on PHM →