Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) Bolsa

Ecolab

Ecolab produces and markets cleaning and sanitation products for the industrial manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, and life sciences 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. Additionally, Ecolab sells customized water management solutions across its end markets. The company has a strong hold on the US market and is growing its presence abroad.

Ecolab Inc

Ecolomondo Corp

First Trust EIP Carbon Impact ETF

ECLIPSE BANCORP INC by Eclipse Bancorp Inc.

Eclipse Bancorp Inc

Ecolab Inc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) shares are trading higher after the company reported&nbsp;a first-quarter&nbsp;sales decline of&nbsp;2%&nbsp;year-on-year (Y/Y) to&nbsp;$3.69 billion,&nbsp;missing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b45064296/ecolab-delivers-continued-double-digit-eps-growth-reported-diluted-eps-1-41-adjusted-diluted-eps-1" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate of&nbsp;$3.70 billion</a>.
Organic sales grew&nbsp;3% Y/Y, led by growth in the Institutional &amp; Specialty, Pest Elimination, and Life Sciences segments.
Effective the first quarter, Ecolab reorganized its segment reporting: Global Industrial is now Global Water (including the former Water, Food &amp; Beverage, and Paper segments); Global Institutional &amp; Specialty remains unchanged (with Healthcare moving in); Global Life Sciences became a standalone segment; and Global Pest Elimination remains a standalone segment.
In fixed currency, Global Water sales grew&nbsp;3% Y/Y&nbsp;to&nbsp;$1.80 billion, Global Institutional &amp; Specialty fell 3% Y/Y to&nbsp;$1.41 billion, Global Life Sciences upped 5% Y/Y&nbsp;to&nbsp;$167.0 million&nbsp;and, Global Pest Elimination increased&nbsp;7% Y/Y&nbsp;to&nbsp;$278.1 million.
Adjusted operating income increased&nbsp;8%&nbsp;Y/Y to&nbsp;$589.6 million, with an adjusted operating margin of&nbsp;15.9% vs.&nbsp;14.3% a year ago.
Organic operating margin expanded 190 bps Y/Y to 16.0%, on improved value pricing and productivity.
Adjusted EPS of&nbsp;$1.50 (+12%&nbsp;Y/Y)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">in line with the consensus estimate</a>.
The company held&nbsp;$1.16 billion&nbsp;in cash and equivalents as of March 31, 2025.
Outlook: Ecolab expects&nbsp;second-quarter&nbsp;adjusted EPS of&nbsp;$1.84-$1.94 (+10% to 15% Y/Y), vs. the&nbsp;$1.91 estimate.
The company reiterated 2025 adjusted EPS at $7.42&nbsp;–&nbsp;$7.62 (+12% to 15%),&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">compared to the&nbsp;$7.49&nbsp;estimate</a>.
The company repurchased around 0.6 million shares during the quarter.
Christophe Beck, Ecolab's chairman and chief executive officer, said, &#8221;We expect to deliver continued 12-15% earnings growth this year, even as we face a very unpredictable operating environment with soft end market demand and rapidly changing international trade policy. We are making proactive and strategically consistent adjustments to our delivery path due to these external conditions.&#8221;
&#8221;We look to continue to outperform our end markets as we work to convert our strong new business wins, which all leverage our One Ecolab growth initiative and our record innovation pipeline.&#8221;
&#8221;To overcome the impact from tariffs, we are leveraging the strength of Ecolab&#8217;s world-class supply chain, our ‘local for local&#8217; production model, and our recently announced trade surcharge.&#8221;
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;VanEck Environmental Services ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVX#NYSE">EVX</a>) and&nbsp;iShares U.S. Basic Materials ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYM#NYSE">IYM</a>).
Price Action: ECL shares are up 2.3% at $244.51 at the last check Tuesday.
Read Next:
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Earnings

Equities

Large Cap

News

Guidance

Movers

Market Vectors Environmental Services Index Fund

iShares Trust Dow Jones US Basic Materials Sector Index Fund

Ecolab Navigates Soft Demand, Tariffs With Margin Gains, Confirms Full-Year Forecast

Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) affirms FY2025 Adj EPS guidance from $7.42-$7.62 to $7.42-$7.62 vs $7.49 analyst estimate..

Ecolab Affirms FY2025 Adj EPS Guidance of $7.42-$7.62 vs $7.49 Est

Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) is looking for Q2 Adj EPS of $1.84-$1.94 vs $1.91 analyst estimate..

Ecolab Sees Q2 Adj EPS $1.84-$1.94 vs $1.91 Est

Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $1.50 per share which met the analyst consensus estimate. This is a 11.94 percent increase over earnings of $1.34 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $3.69 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $3.70 billion by 0.02 percent. This is a 1.52 percent decrease over sales of $3.75 billion the same period last year.

Earnings Misses

Ecolab Q1 Adj. EPS $1.50, Inline, Sales $3.69B Miss $3.70B Estimate

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Laboratory Corporation Of America Holdings

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Earnings Scheduled For April 29, 2025

Seaport Global analyst Michael Harrison upgrades Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) from Neutral to Buy and announces $290 price target.

Upgrades

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Seaport Global Upgrades Ecolab to Buy, Announces $290 Price Target

Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik maintains Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $300 to $275.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Ecolab, Lowers Price Target to $275

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Bill Peterson downgraded the rating for United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/X#NYSE">X</a>) from Overweight to Neutral and lowered the price target from $43 to $38. United States Steel shares closed at $41.39 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AFRMXanalyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Baird analyst David Manthey downgraded Hillman Solutions Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HLMN#NASDAQ">HLMN</a>) from Outperform to Neutral and cut the price target from $12 to $9. Hillman Solns shares closed at $7.92 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HLMN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Jason Haas downgraded the rating for Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) from Overweight to Equal-Weight and lowered the price target from $265 to $240. Ecolab shares closed at $238.18 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ECL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying ECL stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="603" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/16083415/image-7-1024x603.png" alt="" class="wp-image-874256" style="width:533px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/16083415/image-7-1024x603.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/16083415/image-7-300x177.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/16083415/image-7-768x452.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/16083415/image-7.png 1082w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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Photo via Shutterstock

Downgrades

Pre-Market Outlook

Markets

Trading Ideas

This Ecolab Analyst Is No Longer Bullish; Here Are Top 3 Downgrades For Wednesday

Ecolab Announces 5% Trade Surcharge On All Services In The United States, Effective May 1

Wells Fargo analyst Jason Haas downgrades Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) from Overweight to Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $265 to $240.

Wells Fargo Downgrades Ecolab to Equal-Weight, Lowers Price Target to $240

Across the recent three months, 11 analysts have shared their insights on Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Ecolab, revealing an average target of $290.45, a high estimate of $313.00, and a low estimate of $265.00. Marking an increase of 1.03%, the current average surpasses the previous average price target of $287.50. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744747225_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive Ecolab. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
&#x7C; Analyst &#x7C; Analyst Firm &#x7C; Action Taken &#x7C; Rating &#x7C;Current Price Target&#x7C; Prior Price Target &#x7C; 
&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C; 
&#x7C;John Roberts &#x7C;Mizuho &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $285.00&#x7C;$302.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jason Haas &#x7C;Wells Fargo &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $265.00&#x7C;$313.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Patrick Cunningham &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $275.00&#x7C;$305.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Colin Isaac &#x7C;Redburn Atlantic &#x7C;Announces &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $270.00&#x7C;- &#x7C; 
&#x7C;John McNulty &#x7C;BMO Capital &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $305.00&#x7C;$295.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Charles Neivert &#x7C;Piper Sandler &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $310.00&#x7C;$270.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Joshua Spector &#x7C;UBS &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $280.00&#x7C;$257.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jason Haas &#x7C;Wells Fargo &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $313.00&#x7C;$295.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Shlomo Rosenbaum &#x7C;Stifel &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $307.00&#x7C;$285.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Patrick Cunningham &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $305.00&#x7C;$290.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Vincent Andrews &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $280.00&#x7C;$263.00 &#x7C;
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Ecolab. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Ecolab compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Ecolab's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Ecolab's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ECL/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Ecolab analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Ecolab: A Closer Look</h2>
Ecolab produces and markets cleaning and sanitation products for the industrial manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, and life sciences 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. Additionally, Ecolab sells customized water management solutions across its end markets. The company has a strong hold on the US market and is growing its presence abroad.
<h3>Breaking Down Ecolab's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Ecolab's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 1.7% as of 31 December, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Materials sector.
Net Margin: Ecolab's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 11.81% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Ecolab's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 5.47% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Ecolab's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 2.13%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: Ecolab's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.95.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What Analysts Are Saying About Ecolab Stock

Mizuho analyst John Roberts maintains Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $302 to $285.

Mizuho Maintains Outperform on Ecolab, Lowers Price Target to $285

WIIM

AXTA

Shares of companies in the broader chemicals sector are trading lower as stocks pull back after surging Wednesday following President Trump's tariff pause announcement.

Wells Fargo analyst Jason Haas maintains Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $313 to $265.

Wells Fargo Maintains Overweight on Ecolab, Lowers Price Target to $265

Citigroup analyst Patrick Cunningham maintains Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $305 to $275.

Citigroup Maintains Buy on Ecolab, Lowers Price Target to $275

Each week,&nbsp;Benzinga's Stock Whisper Index&nbsp;uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.
Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.
Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/04/44597684/exclusive-marchs-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-tesla-nvidia-apple-applovin-stock-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: March&#8217;s 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Tesla, Nvidia, Apple, Applovin Stock Rank?</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Here&#8217;s a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending April 4:</h1>
Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOLD#NYSE">GOLD</a>): For the second-straight week, a gold stock makes its way on the Stock Whisper Index. Readers are paying increased attention to gold stocks with the price of gold at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44308014/gold-hits-record-highs-as-trade-war-fears-fuel-safe-haven-demand-mining-stocks-soar">record highs</a>. 
Barrick Gold is expected to report first-quarter financial results later this month. Analysts expect the company to post earnings per share and revenue growth from the year-over-year period. Barrick has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in two of the last three quarters, but only four of the past 10 quarters overall. The company has missed revenue estimates in seven of the past 10 quarters, including two straight quarters. With improving prices for gold, investors will be waiting to see if Barrick's financials improved and what the company is saying about the future.
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59">Benzinga Pro chart</a> below shows shares dropping slightly on the week in the midst of tariffs from President Donald Trump.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181219/Screenshot-374.png" alt="" class="wp-image-856512" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181219/Screenshot-374.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181219/Screenshot-374-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181219/Screenshot-374-768x386.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
Prologis Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLD#NYSE">PLD</a>): The industrial and logistics real estate company saw increased interest from readers during the week. 
The company is set to report first-quarter financials on April 16. Analysts expect the company to report earnings per share of $1.38, up from $1.28 per share in last year's first quarter. Prologis has beaten earnings estimates in three straight quarters. 
Analysts expect the company to report first-quarter revenue of $2.04 billion, up from $1.83 billion in last year's first quarter. The company has missed analyst estimates for revenue in five straight quarters and seven of the past 10 quarters overall. Prologis will also host its annual shareholder meeting on May 8, which could provide back-to-back months of company news and catalysts.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="498" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181238/Screenshot-375.png" alt="" class="wp-image-856513" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181238/Screenshot-375.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181238/Screenshot-375-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181238/Screenshot-375-768x384.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
 Ecolab Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>): The cleaning and sanitation company saw strong interest from readers during the week, which comes with Baird maintaining a Neutral rating and lowering the price target from $288 to $277. 
The company is expected to report first-quarter financial results later this month. Analysts expect the company to report earnings per share of $1.50, up from $1.34 in last year's first quarter; it has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in nine straight quarters. Analysts expect the company to report revenue of $3.70 billion, down from $3.75 billion in last year's first quarter. Ecolab beat analyst estimates for revenue in the fourth quarter and has beaten the estimate in five of the last 10 quarters.
"We enter 2025 confident in our ability to deliver continued strong performance in a dynamic environment. Growth in the United States, our largest and most profitable region, continues to be very strong," Ecolab CEO Christophe Beck <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/02/43626120/ecolab-q4-solid-eps-growth-industrial-and-institutional-acceleration-2025-momentum-and-more">said </a>after fourth-quarter financial results.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181253/Screenshot-376.png" alt="" class="wp-image-856514" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181253/Screenshot-376.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181253/Screenshot-376-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181253/Screenshot-376-768x385.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Nutanix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTNX#NASDAQ">NTNX</a>): The cloud software company saw increased interest from readers during the week. 
In February, Nutanix<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/44007219/nutanix-q2-revenue-rises-16-margins-expand-as-cloud-business-gains-momentum"> reported second-quarter results</a> that included revenue up 16% year-over-year and earnings per share of 56 cents. Both figures beat analyst estimates and led to several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NTNX/analyst-ratings">raising their price targets </a>on the stock. Nutanix also raised its full-year revenue, operating margin and free cash flow estimates. The company will <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/04/03/3055224/0/en/Nutanix-Announces-2025-NEXT-Event-Lineup-Shape-the-Next-Era-of-AI-Cloud-Native-and-Hybrid-Multicloud-Innovation.html">host </a>the NEXT 2025 event covering sectors like AI and the cloud from May 7 to May 9.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="503" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181309/Screenshot-377.png" alt="" class="wp-image-856515" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181309/Screenshot-377.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181309/Screenshot-377-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181309/Screenshot-377-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
Xylem Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XYL#NYSE">XYL</a>): The water technology company saw increased interest from investors during the week. The company will report first-quarter financial results on April 29. 
Analysts expect earnings per share and revenue to increase from last year's first quarter. Xylem beat analyst estimates for earnings per share in the fourth quarter and has beaten estimates in eight of the past 10 quarters overall. The company has beaten analyst revenue estimates in eight of the past 10 quarters.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181324/Screenshot-378.png" alt="" class="wp-image-856516" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181324/Screenshot-378.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181324/Screenshot-378-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/03181324/Screenshot-378-768x386.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Stay tuned for next week's report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0403" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>
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Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 2.62% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 10.67%. Currently, Ecolab has a market capitalization of $71.99 billion. 
Buying $1000 In ECL: If an investor had bought $1000 of ECL stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $7,613.53 today based on a price of $253.81 for ECL at the time of writing.
<h3>Ecolab's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1743192011_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Ecolab Stock In The Last 20 Years

Ecolab's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) short percent of float has fallen 12.37% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 2.08 million shares sold short, which is 0.85% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.7 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Ecolab Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742925616_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Ecolab has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Ecolab's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Ecolab's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.65%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Is Ecolab Gaining or Losing Market Support?

In the latest quarter, 10 analysts provided ratings for Ecolab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Ecolab, revealing an average target of $293.4, a high estimate of $313.00, and a low estimate of $270.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 2.91% from the previous average price target of $285.11.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742839249_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
The perception of Ecolab by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Colin Isaac</td>
<td>Redburn Atlantic</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John McNulty</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
<td>$295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Neivert</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joshua Spector</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$257.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Haas</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$313.00</td>
<td>$295.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shlomo Rosenbaum</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$307.00</td>
<td>$285.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Cunningham</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vincent Andrews</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$263.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ashish Sabadra</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$294.00</td>
<td>$306.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Neivert</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Ecolab. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Ecolab compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Ecolab's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Ecolab's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ECL/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Ecolab analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Ecolab Better</h2>
Ecolab produces and markets cleaning and sanitation products for the industrial manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, and life sciences 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. Additionally, Ecolab sells customized water management solutions across its end markets. The company has a strong hold on the US market and is growing its presence abroad.
<h3>Ecolab's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Revenue Growth: Ecolab's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 31 December, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 1.7%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Materials sector.
Net Margin: Ecolab's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 11.81%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Ecolab's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 5.47%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 2.13%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, Ecolab adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
<h2>The Basics of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
Benzinga's #1 analyst just identified a stock poised for explosive growth. This under-the-radar company could surge 200%+ as major market shifts unfold. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/turning-point-trader-checkout-2/?t=Tu1tu3arja3be22tu36&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantag">Click here for urgent details</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Assessing Ecolab: Insights From 10 Financial Analysts

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Baird analyst Timothy Wojs downgraded the rating for The AZEK Company Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZEK#NYSE">AZEK</a>) from Outperform to Neutral and lowered the price target from $58 to $53. AZEK shares closed at $41.39 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AZEK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>BMO Capital analyst Phillip Jungwirth downgraded Civitas Resources, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIVI#NYSE">CIVI</a>) from Outperform to Market Perform and lowered the price target from $50 to $42. Civitas Resources shares closed at $34.79 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CIVI/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group analyst Stephen Kim downgraded the rating for Lennar Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LEN#NYSE">LEN</a>) from Outperform to In-Line and lowered the price target from $159 to $131. Lennar shares closed at $115.22 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LEN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>B of A Securities analyst Ronald Epstein downgraded Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) from Buy to Neutral and cut the price target from&nbsp;$685&nbsp;to&nbsp;$485. Lockheed Martin shares closed at $439.70 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LMT/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Redburn Atlantic analyst Colin Isaac downgraded Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ECL#NYSE">ECL</a>) from Buy to Neutral and announced&nbsp;a $270&nbsp;price target. Ecolab shares closed at $251.00 on Thursday. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ECL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
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Press Releases

Ecolab Delivers Strong Fourth Quarter and Record 2024 Performance; Reported Diluted EPS $1.66; Adjusted Diluted EPS $1.81, +17%; 2025 Adjusted Diluted EPS Outlook: $7.42 - $7.62, +12% - 15%

Ecolab Schedules Webcast of Industry Conference for February 26, 2025

Ecolab Appoints Michel Doukeris to Board of Directors

Ecolab Declares Cash Dividend

Ecolab Named One of the World's Most Ethical Companies for 19th Consecutive Year

Ecolab Schedules Webcast of Industry Conference for March 13, 2025

Ecolab Schedules Webcast and Conference Call on April 29, 2025

Ecolab Delivers on Commitments to Save Water in Historic AI Era

Ecolab Announces 5% Trade Surcharge in the United States

Ecolab Delivers Continued Double-Digit EPS Growth; Reported Diluted EPS $1.41; Adjusted Diluted EPS $1.50, +12%; Maintains 2025 Adjusted Diluted EPS Outlook: $7.42 - $7.62, +12% - 15%

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