Ecolab Surges to Record High as Shares Rank 357th in Daily Trading Volume Amid $1.8B Ovivo Deal and 88-Year Dividend Streak

On August 19, 2025, Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) shares rose 1.28%, reaching an all-time high of $283.51. The stock saw a trading volume of $280 million, down 29.35% from the previous day, ranking 357th in market activity. The rally reflects strong investor confidence, with Eclab’s stock up 20.13% year-to-date and trading at a P/E ratio of 37.31.

The company announced a $1.8 billion cash acquisition of Ovivo Inc.’s electronics division, enhancing its water solutions for semiconductor manufacturing. The deal, expected to close in Q1 2026, prompted Jefferies to raise its price target to $315 with a “Buy” rating. Ecolab also declared a $0.65 per share quarterly dividend, payable on October 15, continuing its 88-year consecutive dividend streak.

Julie P. Whalen, former CFO of Expedia Group, joined Ecolab’s board, adding expertise to its Audit and Finance Committees. Analysts highlighted the acquisition’s strategic fit with Ecolab’s industrial growth focus, while the dividend underscores its appeal to income-oriented investors.

A backtested strategy of purchasing the top 500 stocks by daily trading volume and holding for one day yielded a $2,940 profit from December 2022 to August 2025. However, it faced a maximum drawdown of -$1,960, indicating volatility amid positive returns.