Avient and Huntsman Compared: Which Basic Materials Company Reigns Supreme?

An in-depth look at the strengths and weaknesses of these two mid-cap basic materials firms.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Avient (NYSE:AVNT) and Huntsman (NYSE:HUN) are both mid-cap basic materials companies, but which one is the superior business? This analysis compares the two firms across key metrics like institutional ownership, valuation, profitability, dividends, and analyst recommendations to determine which stock comes out on top.

Why it matters

As mid-cap players in the basic materials sector, the performance and outlook of Avient and Huntsman are important indicators of trends in this industry. Investors looking to gain exposure to this space will want to understand the relative positioning and competitive dynamics between these two companies.

The details

The analysis finds that Avient has higher earnings but lower revenue than Huntsman, and is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio. Avient also has stronger institutional ownership at 95.5% compared to Huntsman's 84.8%. However, Huntsman pays a higher dividend yield of 2.8% versus Avient's 2.6%. Analysts currently have a more favorable view of Avient, with a consensus price target suggesting 10.5% upside compared to a potential 1.5% downside for Huntsman.

  • The analysis is based on the latest financial data available as of February 21, 2026.

The players

Avient Corporation

A formulator of material solutions for a variety of industries, including medical, packaging, and transportation.

Huntsman Corporation

A manufacturer and seller of diversified organic chemical products worldwide, operating in the Polyurethanes, Performance Products, and Advanced Materials segments.

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The takeaway

This analysis highlights that while both Avient and Huntsman are mid-cap basic materials companies, Avient appears to have the edge in terms of institutional support, valuation, and analyst sentiment. Investors seeking exposure to this sector may want to give Avient a closer look as the more favorable investment option between the two.