Reviewing ASP Isotopes and Valhi: Comparing Small-Cap Basic Materials Companies

ASP Isotopes and Valhi are both small-cap basic materials companies, but which one is the superior business?

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

This article compares ASP Isotopes (NASDAQ:ASPI) and Valhi (NYSE:VHI), two small-cap basic materials companies, to determine which is the stronger business. The analysis looks at factors like analyst recommendations, profitability, institutional ownership, valuation, dividends, risk, and earnings.

Why it matters

Investors interested in the basic materials sector may want to understand how these two small-cap companies compare in terms of financial performance, growth potential, and market positioning in order to make informed investment decisions.

The details

The article notes that ASP Isotopes has a higher beta of 3.47, indicating its stock price is more volatile than the S&P 500, while Valhi has a beta of 1.2, making it 20% more volatile than the broader market. In terms of valuation, ASP Isotopes is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Valhi, suggesting it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. The analysis also examines the companies' revenue, earnings, institutional ownership, and profitability metrics.

  • The article was published on February 15, 2026.

The players

ASP Isotopes

A development stage advanced materials company focused on the production, distribution, marketing, and sale of isotopes.

Valhi

A company that operates in the chemicals, component products, and real estate management and development businesses.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This analysis highlights the key differences between ASP Isotopes and Valhi, two small-cap basic materials companies, in terms of their financial performance, growth potential, and market positioning. Investors interested in the sector may want to further research these companies to determine which one better aligns with their investment goals and risk tolerance.