Ecolab Inc (ECL)vsValhi Inc (VHI)
ECL
Ecolab Inc
$276.18
+1.69%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $80.38B
VHI
Valhi Inc
$18.26
+0.61%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $504.97M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ecolab Inc generates 678% more annual revenue ($16.84B vs $2.16B). ECL leads profitability with a 12.6% profit margin vs -2.4%. VHI appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.32. VHI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
ECL
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
VHI
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ECL.
Margin of Safety
+8.9%
Fair Value
$17.21
Current Price
$18.26
$1.05 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 2500.0% YoY
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
3.3% earnings growth
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of -3.6% — below average capital efficiency
Currently unprofitable
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ECL
The strongest argument for ECL centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity.
Bull Case : VHI
The strongest argument for VHI centers on PEG Ratio, Price/Book, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 12.2% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ECL
The primary concerns for ECL are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, Debt/Equity.
Bear Case : VHI
The primary concerns for VHI are Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ECL profiles as a value stock while VHI is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
VHI carries more volatility with a beta of 1.02 — expect wider price swings.
VHI is growing revenue faster at 12.2% — sustainability is the question.
ECL generates stronger free cash flow (489M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
VHI scores higher overall (58/100 vs 53/100) and 12.2% revenue growth. 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.
Valhi Inc
BASIC MATERIALS · CHEMICALS · USA
Valhi, Inc. engages in the chemicals, components, and real estate development and management businesses in Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, and internationally.
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