Chemical Stocks Outlook: Ecolab Surges, Eastman Cuts Costs, Boise Cascade Struggles

Ecolab (ECL) reported record 2025 results with Q4 revenue of $4.196B, up 4.76% YoY, and organic operating margin expanding 140 basis points to 18.5%. Eastman Chemical (EMN) posted Q4 EPS of $0.75, beating estimates, but revenue of $1.973B missed by 3.6%. Boise Cascade (BCC) saw Q4 EPS beat estimates at $0.24 but revenue fell 6.85% YoY. Ecolab is firing on all cylinders, while Eastman Chemical is executing cost cuts, and Boise Cascade remains pressured by weak housing starts and mortgage headwinds.