Ecolab Past Earnings Performance
Past criteria checks 3/6
Ecolab has been growing earnings at an average annual rate of 18.4%, while the Chemicals industry saw earnings declining at 4% annually. Revenues have been growing at an average rate of 6.2% per year. Ecolab's return on equity is 21.2%, and it has net margins of 12.8%.
Key information
18.43%
Earnings growth rate
18.65%
EPS growth rate
| Chemicals Industry Growth | 12.93% |
| Revenue growth rate | 6.16% |
| Return on equity | 21.17% |
| Net Margin | 12.80% |
| Last Earnings Update | 31 Mar 2026 |
Recent past performance updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • Apr 25
ECL: Structural Pricing Power Will Support Execution Of CoolIT Data Center Acquisition
Analysts nudged the price target on Ecolab slightly lower to reflect a fair value adjustment of about $0.33, balancing more cautious margin and discount rate assumptions with Street research that highlights both recent target cuts and a string of upgrades and price target increases related to pricing power and the CoolIT acquisition. Analyst Commentary Street research on Ecolab has been active, with a mix of higher and lower price targets alongside several upgrades.Seeking Alpha • Apr 23
Ecolab: Cool Off With Heating Up Returns
Summary Ecolab is positioned as a critical behind-the-scenes beneficiary of the AI and data center expansion, providing essential water and hygiene solutions. ECL's growth is underpinned by recurring revenue, strategic acquisitions like CoolIT Systems, and accelerating demand for water management in AI-driven industries. Shares trade at a forward P/E of 32.6, below a fair value estimate of $283, with projected 12.7% annual EPS growth through 2028. Key risks include energy/raw material inflation and geopolitical/currency headwinds, but ECL's Dividend Aristocrat status and stable model support long-term total returns. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaNarrative Update • Apr 10
ECL: Structural Pricing Power Will Support Execution Of Future Data Center Acquisition
The updated analyst price target for Ecolab edges slightly lower to $319.29 from $320.43, as analysts factor in mixed recent research that includes several target cuts tied to valuation concerns around the $4.75b CoolIT deal, as well as upgrades and price target raises that highlight Ecolab's pricing power and positioning as a potential inflation beneficiary. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Ecolab reflects a mixed but engaged analyst community, with several firms revisiting their models after the announced US$4.75b CoolIT acquisition and recent pricing actions.Narrative Update • Mar 26
ECL: Structural Pricing Power Will Support Execution On CoolIT Data Center Deal
Ecolab's updated analyst price target edges down from $321.86 to $320.43 as analysts factor in higher revenue growth assumptions, slightly lower projected profit margins, and a modestly reduced future P/E multiple, following a mix of recent target increases, target cuts, and rating changes across the Street. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Ecolab shows a mix of optimism and caution, with several firms adjusting ratings and targets around pricing power, deal valuation, and execution.Narrative Update • Mar 11
ECL: Upward Sector Catalysts And Buybacks Will Support Elevated Execution Risk
The updated analyst price target for Ecolab reflects a modest recalibration in our model. The fair value estimate of $321.86 is supported by slightly higher revenue growth assumptions, a lower discount rate, and broadly consistent profit margin and future P/E inputs that align with a recent wave of upward price target revisions from multiple research firms.Narrative Update • Feb 25
ECL: Fair Outlook As Sector Catalysts Meet Elevated Execution Risk
The analyst fair value estimate for Ecolab has shifted from about $296 to around $322 as analysts collectively raise price targets. This change reflects updated views on margin potential, valuation multiples, and the broader chemicals sector backdrop.Narrative Update • Feb 10
ECL: Fair Outlook As Data Center Cooling Meets Sector Supply Uncertainty
Narrative Update The analyst price target on Ecolab has been nudged higher by about $1 to roughly $296, as analysts incorporate slightly firmer assumptions around revenue growth, profit margins, and a modestly lower future P/E, supported by recent price target increases at several firms even as some ratings have turned more cautious. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Ecolab reflects a mix of optimism on long term positioning and caution on near term risk and valuation, with several firms adjusting price targets and at least one turning more guarded on the shares.Narrative Update • Jan 26
ECL: Fair Outlook As Cooling Demand Meets Uncertain Chemicals And Agriculture Backdrop
Ecolab's analyst price target has moved slightly higher to about $295, as analysts factor in small adjustments to fair value and profitability assumptions, along with recent target increases from firms such as Citi, BofA, and UBS, partly offset by a downgrade from another research house. Analyst Commentary Recent research has been mixed, with some bullish analysts fine tuning their targets higher and one bearish analyst turning more cautious.Narrative Update • Jan 11
ECL: Fair Outlook Balances Margin Strength With Uncertain Chemical And Agriculture Backdrop
Analysts have inched their fair value estimate for Ecolab higher, with the price target moving by about US$2.56 to US$294.71, citing updated views on revenue growth potential, a slightly adjusted discount rate, and ongoing discussion of industry catalysts such as chemical sector oversupply, mixed agriculture trends, and possible demand support from improving PMI indicators and future rate cuts. Analyst Commentary Recent research updates around Ecolab point to a generally constructive stance, with price targets nudging higher and coverage being reinstated with a positive angle.Narrative Update • Dec 26
ECL: Rising Margins And Dividend Growth Will Support Resilient Returns
Analysts have nudged their price target on Ecolab slightly higher, with fair value rising about $0.40 to approximately $292 per share, citing expectations for continued operating margin expansion into 2026 and resilient above average returns on equity, despite a challenging macro backdrop for specialty chemicals. Analyst Commentary Street research remains constructive on Ecolab, with recent updates highlighting both upside drivers and lingering macro sensitivities that could influence the pace of multiple expansion and earnings growth.Narrative Update • Dec 11
ECL: Rising Margins And Dividend Increase Will Support Strong Returns Into 2026
Analysts have modestly raised their price target on Ecolab by $10 to $325, citing improving operating margins, above average returns on equity, and resilient prospects despite a challenging macro backdrop for specialty chemicals volumes. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts highlight that Ecolab's medium term setup remains attractive, underpinned by structurally improving operating margins and above average returns on equity that support a higher valuation multiple.Analysis Article • Dec 08
Ecolab's (NYSE:ECL) Shareholders Will Receive A Bigger Dividend Than Last Year
Ecolab Inc. ( NYSE:ECL ) will increase its dividend from last year's comparable payment on the 15th of January to...Narrative Update • Nov 27
ECL: Margin Expansion From One Ecolab Will Drive Steady Returns Into 2026
Analysts have raised their price targets for Ecolab, with the consensus forecast increasing from $315 to $325 per share. This change is driven by expectations for continued margin expansion and robust medium-term growth prospects.Narrative Update • Nov 13
ECL: Margin Expansion Will Drive Stronger Performance Through 2026
Ecolab’s fair value price target has been modestly increased from $290.15 to $291.75. This reflects analysts’ continued confidence in the company’s margin expansion and growth prospects, despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges.Analysis Article • Oct 31
The Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) Third-Quarter Results Are Out And Analysts Have Published New Forecasts
Shareholders might have noticed that Ecolab Inc. ( NYSE:ECL ) filed its quarterly result this time last week. The early...Narrative Update • Oct 29
Margin Expansion And Digital Solutions Will Drive Outperformance Over The Next Few Years
The fair value estimate for Ecolab has increased slightly from $286.10 to $290.15. Analysts point to improving medium-term growth prospects and higher operating margin expectations, citing several recent upward price target revisions.Analysis Article • Sep 21
With EPS Growth And More, Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) Makes An Interesting Case
For beginners, it can seem like a good idea (and an exciting prospect) to buy a company that tells a good story to...Narrative Update • Sep 06
Digital Technologies And Life Sciences Will Open New Markets
Ecolab’s consensus analyst price target was modestly raised to $285.95, reflecting increased confidence in growth and margin expansion from the "One Ecolab" initiative and improved sector sentiment, despite valuation concerns. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts cite the "One Ecolab" initiative as a catalyst for accelerating growth and driving margin expansion.Analysis Article • Sep 04
Is Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) A Risky Investment?
David Iben put it well when he said, 'Volatility is not a risk we care about. What we care about is avoiding the...Analysis Article • Aug 21
Is It Too Late To Consider Buying Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL)?
NYSE:ECL 1 Year Share Price vs Fair Value Explore Ecolab's Fair Values from the Community and select yours Today we're...Analysis Article • Aug 01
Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) Just Released Its Second-Quarter Results And Analysts Are Updating Their Estimates
Ecolab Inc. ( NYSE:ECL ) shareholders are probably feeling a little disappointed, since its shares fell 3.0% to US$262...Analysis Article • Jul 21
What Ecolab Inc.'s (NYSE:ECL) P/E Is Not Telling You
With a price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 36.2x Ecolab Inc. ( NYSE:ECL ) may be sending very bearish signals at the...Analysis Article • Jun 15
A Look At The Fair Value Of Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL)
Key Insights Ecolab's estimated fair value is US$227 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Current share price of...Seeking Alpha • Apr 07
Ecolab: 40 Times Free Cash Flow Is Still Not Justified
Summary Despite Ecolab's 47.5% gain since my last article, I maintain a "Hold" rating due to its high valuation and uncertain growth prospects. Valuation multiples remain high, with Ecolab trading at 34.4 times earnings and 40.0 times free cash flow, similar to three years ago. Ecolab's management targets 12%-15% EPS growth, but I find this overly optimistic given historical performance and current market conditions. Even with high growth assumptions, Ecolab appears fairly valued at best, making it a risky long-term investment despite its quality. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Jan 25
Ecolab: Becoming A Cleaner Picture
Summary Ecolab shares remain expensive despite solid earnings growth in 2024 and anticipated growth in 2025, trading at 35 times earnings with a modest 3% earnings yield. The company has a strong long-term track record, but organic growth has been modest over the past decade. Ecolab's strategic divestments and bolt-on acquisitions, like the sale of its surgical solutions business and purchase of Barclay Water Management, aim to optimize its portfolio. I'm cautiously optimistic about Ecolab, awaiting a share price pullback or continued stagnation before considering an investment. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Nov 17
Ecolab Q3: Balanced Price And Volume Growth
Summary Ecolab reported strong financial results with 4% organic revenue growth and 22% adjusted operating profit growth, yet I believe the stock is overvalued. The company’s value-based pricing and innovative products are driving growth, but I assign a 'Sell' rating with a fair value of $220 per share. Ecolab’s pest control and infection prevention markets are projected to grow, but cost pressures and competition pose risks. Despite potential stock price support from share repurchases, I maintain a cautious outlook due to overvaluation concerns. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaRevenue & Expenses Breakdown
Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
How Ecolab makes and spends money. Based on latest reported earnings, on an LTM basis.
Earnings and Revenue History
| Date | Revenue | Earnings | G+A Expenses | R&D Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Mar 26 | 16,452 | 2,106 | 4,263 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 25 | 16,081 | 2,076 | 4,207 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 25 | 15,890 | 1,985 | 4,195 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 25 | 15,724 | 2,136 | 4,141 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 25 | 15,685 | 2,103 | 4,149 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 24 | 15,741 | 2,112 | 4,177 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 24 | 15,675 | 2,045 | 4,158 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 24 | 15,634 | 1,712 | 4,156 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 24 | 15,501 | 1,551 | 4,090 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 23 | 15,320 | 1,372 | 4,002 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 23 | 15,053 | 1,232 | 3,890 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 23 | 14,764 | 1,175 | 3,737 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 23 | 14,493 | 1,153 | 3,660 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 22 | 14,188 | 1,092 | 3,579 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 22 | 13,881 | 1,128 | 3,523 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 22 | 13,533 | 1,106 | 3,477 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 22 | 13,115 | 1,108 | 3,393 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 21 | 12,733 | 1,130 | 3,345 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 21 | 12,434 | 1,129 | 3,289 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 21 | 12,132 | 1,051 | 3,264 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 21 | 11,655 | 869 | 3,201 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 20 | 11,790 | 967 | 3,249 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 20 | 11,969 | 1,062 | 3,319 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 20 | 12,175 | 1,252 | 3,379 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 20 | 12,658 | 1,466 | 3,485 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 19 | 12,562 | 1,426 | 3,467 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 19 | 13,078 | 1,426 | 3,533 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 19 | 13,602 | 1,426 | 3,628 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 19 | 14,122 | 1,433 | 3,766 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 18 | 12,222 | 1,250 | 3,427 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 18 | 14,557 | 1,597 | 3,932 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 18 | 14,374 | 1,554 | 3,869 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 18 | 14,144 | 1,498 | 3,827 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 17 | 13,836 | 1,505 | 3,758 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 17 | 13,539 | 1,308 | 3,832 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 17 | 13,361 | 1,289 | 4,023 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 17 | 13,218 | 1,253 | 4,142 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 16 | 13,152 | 1,229 | 3,664 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 16 | 13,213 | 1,072 | 4,312 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 16 | 13,273 | 956 | 4,311 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 16 | 13,345 | 1,000 | 4,297 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 15 | 13,545 | 1,002 | 4,346 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 15 | 13,814 | 1,129 | 4,429 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 15 | 14,062 | 1,236 | 4,504 | 0 |
Quality Earnings: ECL has high quality earnings.
Growing Profit Margin: ECL's current net profit margins (12.8%) are lower than last year (13.4%).
Free Cash Flow vs Earnings Analysis
Past Earnings Growth Analysis
Earnings Trend: ECL's earnings have grown by 18.4% per year over the past 5 years.
Accelerating Growth: ECL's earnings growth over the past year (0.1%) is below its 5-year average (18.4% per year).
Earnings vs Industry: ECL earnings growth over the past year (0.1%) did not outperform the Chemicals industry 0.1%.
Return on Equity
High ROE: ECL's Return on Equity (21.2%) is considered high.
Return on Assets
Return on Capital Employed
Discover strong past performing companies
Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/06/01 14:37 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/05/29 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/31 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
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| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
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| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
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Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Ecolab Inc. is covered by 36 analysts. 15 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| John Eade | Argus Research Company |
| Andrew Wittmann | Baird |
| Gary Bisbee | Barclays |