AA vs UHS Comparison

Alcoa is a vertically integrated aluminum company whose operations include bauxite mining, alumina refining, and manufacturing primary aluminum. It is one of the world's largest bauxite miners and alumina refiners by production volume, but sits outside the top-10 aluminum producers, a list dominated by Chinese companies. Profits are closely tied to prevailing commodity prices along the aluminum supply chain.Alcoa was the first mass producer of aluminum, launching the world-changing Hall-Heroult smelting process in the 1880s, making aluminum affordable. It listed as a public company in 1925. In 2016, Alcoa spun off its automotive and aerospace metal parts segment to focus on mining, smelting, and refining. It bought the 40% unowned balance of AWAC in mid-2024.

Universal Health Services primarily offers healthcare services through its behavioral health centers, acute care hospitals, and related outpatient facilities. As of late 2025, the company operated 346 inpatient behavioral health centers, 29 acute care hospitals, and many supportive outpatient facilities. Its operations are concentrated in the US, particularly in Nevada (21% of 2025 operating profits), Texas (19%), and California (13%), although it does have some exposure to the UK behavioral health market (6% of 2025 sales) too. While its acute care services account for over 55% of revenue, the behavioral health centers sport higher margins and account for over 55% of pretax profits.