Ecolab Inc (ECL)vsMaterion Corporation (MTRN)
ECL
Ecolab Inc
$260.60
+1.55%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $72.47B
MTRN
Materion Corporation
$172.54
-2.67%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $3.59B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ecolab Inc generates 821% more annual revenue ($16.45B vs $1.79B). ECL leads profitability with a 12.8% profit margin vs 4.2%. MTRN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.28. ECL earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).
ECL
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
MTRN
Buy51
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ECL.
Margin of Safety
-67.6%
Fair Value
$93.75
Current Price
$172.54
$78.79 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Weak financial health signals
4.2% margin — thin
Operating margin of 2.6%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ECL
The strongest argument for ECL centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity.
Bull Case : MTRN
Revenue growth of 12.1% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ECL
The primary concerns for ECL are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : MTRN
The primary concerns for MTRN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 47.1x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 4.2% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ECL carries more volatility with a beta of 1.02 — expect wider price swings.
MTRN is growing revenue faster at 12.1% — sustainability is the question.
ECL generates stronger free cash flow (758M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY CHEMICALS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ECL scores higher overall (57/100 vs 51/100). Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Ecolab Inc
BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA
Ecolab Inc., headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, is an American corporation that develops and offers services, technology and systems that specialize in water treatment, purification, cleaning and hygiene in a wide variety of applications. It helps organizations both private market as well as public treat their water, not only for drinking directly, but also for use in food, healthcare, hospitality related safety and industry.
Materion Corporation
BASIC MATERIALS · OTHER INDUSTRIAL METALS & MINING · USA
Materion Corporation (MTRN) is a premier provider of advanced materials solutions, delivering specialized products essential for diverse sectors including aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and electronics. The company is recognized for its high-performance metals and alloys, particularly beryllium and copper, along with specialty coatings that comply with rigorous industry standards. By emphasizing research and development and fostering strategic partnerships, Materion enhances its competitive edge while pursuing sustainable growth through innovative technologies and a comprehensive, customer-focused product portfolio.
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