KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Ecolab shares jumped to be among the top S&P 500 gainers Tuesday, as the company posted a current quarter and 2025 outlook that topped analysts’ estimates amid “growth trends” in water, hygiene and infection prevention.
- Ecolab said it expects “macroeconomic trends” in the US to strengthen.
- Ecolab shares have gained more than 30% in the past 12 months.
Ecolab (ECL) shares jumped more than 7% to be among the top S&P 500 gainers Tuesday, as the company posted a current quarter and 2025 outlook that topped analysts’ estimates amid “growth trends” in water, hygiene and infection prevention.
The company projected first quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) in the $1.47 to $1.53 range, translating to a 10% to 14% gain versus the $1.34 posted for the same quarter last year. Ecolab also said it expects full year 2025 adjusted EPS to rise to a range of $7.42 to $7.62, an increase of 12% to 15% compared with the $6.65 for 2024.
The top end of both ranges surpassed consensus estimates of analysts polled by Visible Alpha.
“Secular growth trends in water, hygiene, and infection prevention continue to fuel resilient demand for Ecolab’s innovative technologies and services,” the company said, noting that it expects stronger ”macroeconomic trends” in the U.S., its largest and most profitable region.
Ecolab also posted fourth quarter adjusted EPS at $1.81, which beat estimates, and $4 billion in revenue, which was in line with forecasts.
Ecolab shares are up more than 30% in the past year.