Waste Management Option Alert: Jan 16 $250 Calls at the Bid: 700 vs 1575 OI; Earnings 4/28 After Close 

Waste Management Option Alert: Jan 16 $250 Calls at the Bid: 700 @ $9.8 vs 1575 OI; Earnings 4/28 After Close Ref=$230.03

Waste Management (NYSE:WM) Bolsa

Waste Management

WM ranks as the largest integrated provider of traditional solid waste services in the United States, operating 263 active landfills and about 332 transfer stations. The company serves residential, commercial, industrial, and medical end markets and is also a leading recycler in North America.

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In the current session, the stock is trading at $232.26, after a 1.26% spike. Over the past month, Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) stock increased by 2.22%, and in the past year, by 12.64%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are optimistic but others are more likely to look into the price-to-earnings ratio to see if the stock might be overvalued.

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744653635_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>How Does Waste Management P/E Compare to Other Companies?</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Waste Management has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 69.15 of the Commercial Services &amp; Supplies industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744653635_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

News

Intraday Update

Markets

Price Over Earnings Overview: Waste Management

10 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Waste Management, revealing an average target of $245.4, a high estimate of $260.00, and a low estimate of $235.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 3.24% increase from the previous average price target of $237.70.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744394459_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
The standing of Waste Management among financial experts becomes clear with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
&#x7C; Analyst &#x7C; Analyst Firm &#x7C; Action Taken &#x7C; Rating &#x7C;Current Price Target&#x7C; Prior Price Target &#x7C; 
&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;-----------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jon Windham &#x7C;UBS &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $240.00&#x7C;$230.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Konark Gupta &#x7C;Scotiabank &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Sector Outperform&#x7C; $260.00&#x7C;$255.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Kevin Chiang &#x7C;CIBC &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $247.00&#x7C;$227.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Bryan Burgmeier &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $255.00&#x7C;$242.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Konark Gupta &#x7C;Scotiabank &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Sector Outperform&#x7C; $255.00&#x7C;$250.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Noah Kaye &#x7C;Oppenheimer &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $237.00&#x7C;$231.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Patrick Tyler Brown &#x7C;Raymond James &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $237.00&#x7C;$235.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jeffrey Goldstein &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $235.00&#x7C;$227.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Konark Gupta &#x7C;Scotiabank &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Sector Outperform&#x7C; $250.00&#x7C;$225.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Stephanie Moore &#x7C;Jefferies &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $238.00&#x7C;$255.00 &#x7C;
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Waste Management. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Waste Management compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Waste Management's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
Understanding these analyst evaluations alongside key financial indicators can offer valuable insights into Waste Management's market standing. Stay informed and make well-considered decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WM/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Waste Management analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Waste Management</h2>
WM ranks as the largest integrated provider of traditional solid waste services in the United States, operating 263 active landfills and about 332 transfer stations. The company serves residential, commercial, industrial, and medical end markets and is also a leading recycler in North America.
<h3>Understanding the Numbers: Waste Management's Finances</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With a profound presence, the company's market capitalization is above industry averages. This reflects substantial size and strong market recognition.
Revenue Growth: Waste Management displayed positive results in 3M. As of 31 December, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 12.96%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Industrials sector.
Net Margin: Waste Management's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 10.15% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Waste Management's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 7.37%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Waste Management's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 1.51%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Waste Management's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 2.9, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

What Analysts Are Saying About Waste Management Stock

UBS analyst Jon Windham maintains Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $230 to $240.

Price Target

UBS Maintains Neutral on Waste Management, Raises Price Target to $240

Waste Management's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) short percent of float has risen 10.34% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 3.85 million shares sold short, which is 0.96% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.18 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Waste Management Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744218030_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Waste Management has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Waste Management's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Waste Management's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 6.30%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Trading Ideas

Looking Into Waste Management's Recent Short Interest

Scotiabank analyst Konark Gupta maintains Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) with a Sector Outperform and raises the price target from $255 to $260.

Scotiabank Maintains Sector Outperform on Waste Management, Raises Price Target to $260

For many investors, dividend-focused <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/25/03/44565770/30-year-old-with-65k-in-stocks-sparks-debate-focusing-mostly-on-etfs-but-now-betting-on-bonds-small-caps-and-international-plays">stocks</a> and funds provide a way to generate passive income, whether to supplement retirement, cover day-to-day <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43768530/should-married-couples-split-expenses-dave-ramsey-says-no-youre-married-not-roommates">expenses</a>, or even finance small luxuries like annual vacations.
While some aim for significant <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44518501/20-year-old-university-student-wants-help-with-buying-dividend-stocks-whats-the-best-way-to-start-reddit-weights-in">dividend</a> payouts to replace their salary, others are happy with modest but constant returns that offer a little extra financial freedom.
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This is the case of a Reddit user who is exploring this approach. With $30,000 to invest, he's seeking long-term dividend stocks that can grow over the next 20 years until retirement. While he already holds dividend-paying stocks like Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Walt Disney&nbsp; (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), he wants to expand his portfolio for stability and future income, even if it's just enough to cover yearly vacations.
&#8220;I currently have some stocks that give out dividends (Apple, Disney) but I&#8217;m looking for others. Long-term stability, that my wife and I can use the dividends as another form of income say in 20 years. Even if it&#8217;s just enough to pay for a yearly vacation here or there. Any thoughts on good companies to choose from?&#8221; he asked.
Let&#8217;s break down the Redditors&#8217; advice received in the comment section.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where to Invest $30,000 to Generate Enough Income to Cover Yearly Vacations? Reddit Answers</h2>
Put the Money in an ETF
Several commenters recommended Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHD#NYSE">SCHD</a>) as a core holding because of its dividend yield, historical growth, and the low-risk, diversified exposure it offers investors.
&#8220;Go all in SCHD. Low risk, nice 3.5% starting yield and it will just keep growing,&#8221; a commenter said.
Reinforcing the idea that SCHD fits the poster&#8217;s long-term stability and dividend payout need, this Redditor also suggested he goes with SCHD: &#8220;Since you want some growth and decent payout, SCHD is a great option. 3.5% dividends and 11% growth over the last 10 years each year.&#8221;
&#8220;I would stick with S&amp;P 500 ETFs being young. Put it in a self-direct investment retirement account to avoid taxes,&#8221; a comment reads.
See Also: Have $200K saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/have-200k-saved-heres-how-to-turn-it-into-lasting-wealth"> Here's how to turn it into lasting wealth</a>
Consider High-Yield Dividend Stocks and Trusts
Several commenters suggested higher-yield assets that would generate higher payouts for the investor in the long run.
&#8220;If you want higher yield stocks check: [Verizon Communications (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vz#NYSE">VZ</a>)], [AT&amp;T (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/t#NYSE">T</a>)], [Realty Income Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/o#NYSE">O</a>)], [Altria Group (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mo#NYSE">MO</a>)], [British American Tobacco (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/bti#NYSE">BTI</a>)],&#8221; a Redditor recommended.
A commenter mentioned United Parcel Service (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPS#NYSE">UPS</a>) as a great pick since the company seems to start focusing on higher profit margin areas.
&#8220;UPS pays a solid dividend and the share price has been beaten down a lot on the news that they are reducing Amazon deliveries to focus on higher profit margin areas,&#8221; he said.
Suggesting a very detailed portfolio allocation, this Redditor mentioned several ETFs and individual stocks that he considers would help the poster reach his dividend and growth goals.
&#8220;[Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/voo#NYSE">VOO</a>)] $5,000, 1.25% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] SCHD $5,000, 3.5% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan], [JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jepi#NYSE">JEPI</a>)], [JPMorgan Nasdaq Equity Premium Income ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jepq#NASDAQ">JEPQ</a>)​] ($5,000), 8% combined dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Old Republic International Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ori#NYSE">ORI</a>)] $2,000, 3% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Waste Management (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wm#NYSE">WM</a>)] and [Automatic Data Processing (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/adp#NASDAQ">ADP</a>)] ($3,000), 2% average dividend. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Pfizer (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pfe#NYSE">PFE</a>)] and [Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jnj#NYSE">JNJ</a>)] $2,000, 4.75% average dividend. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jpm#NYSE">JPM</a>)] and [UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/unh#NYSE">UNH</a>)] $2,000, 2% average dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] AAPL and [Microsoft (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)] $2,000. [The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ko#NYSE">KO</a>)] and MO $2,000, 5% average dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] JPM or [American Express (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/axp#NYSE">AXP</a>)] $2,000. JPM has good potential growth,&#8221; the suggestion says.
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Man With $30K To Deploy Wants Dividends For Life – 'Even If It's Just Enough To Pay For A Yearly Vacation Here Or There,' Reddit Reacts

Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>), North America&#8217;s leading environmental services company, announced on Wednesday the grand <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/n44604754/wm-announces-new-modernized-high-tech-recycling-and-renewable-gas-facilities-across-u-s" rel="noreferrer noopener">openings of four</a> new recycling and renewable natural gas (RNG) facilities across the U.S.
These openings are part of WM&#8217;s $3 billion sustainability growth initiative, which runs from 2022 to 2026 and aims to develop or upgrade 39 recycling centers and build 20 new WM-owned RNG facilities.
In celebration of Earth Month, WM is unveiling over $323 million in new and upgraded recycling and RNG facilities across Texas, Baltimore, Chicago and Philadelphia. So far, the company has completed 8 of the 20 planned RNG facilities and 27 of the 39 recycling centers. Once fully implemented, the expanded network is expected to add 2.8 million tons of annual recycling capacity and generate 25 million MMBtu of renewable natural gas annually.
The new facilities are equipped with artificial intelligence and automation to improve efficiency and increase material recovery. In parallel, WM continues to enhance its ability to monitor and mitigate landfill emissions through technologies like Blue Sky Resources and the AirLogic analytics platform.
WM emphasizes technology and innovation as core pillars of its sustainability strategy. &#8220;Technology and innovation underpin our sustainability strategy, and we are adding optical sorters, intelligent sorting equipment and more at our recycling sites to help capture more material, including in areas that lack recycling access today,&#8221; said Tara Hemmer, chief sustainability officer at WM.
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&#8220;We&#8217;re also proud to turn landfill gas captured at WM landfill sites into a renewable energy source, which could power up to 1.7 million homes by 2026 and support our objective of maximizing the allocation of RNG to WM&#8217;s natural gas collection fleet,&#8221; she added.
Price Action: WM shares were trading higher by 0.12% at $234.07 premarket at the last check on Wednesday.
Photo: Shutterstock

Waste Management Invests Big In Smarter, Cleaner Recycling Across Major US Cities

Volatility is back in a big way as markets continue to bounce wildly in the face of trade wars, economic uncertainty, souring consumer sentiment and lingering inflation.
For traders, this can actually be a very profitable time. Even in this brutal correction, you can find winning stocks if you use the right trading signals.
Five stocks are flashing buy signals on the relative strength index (RSI) and moving average convergence/divergence (MACD) indicators.
To be successful at short-term trading, you'll need to understand trend following and momentum strategies, which study the actions of individual traders more than the underlying companies themselves.
Today, we'll look at five stocks showing technical strength amidst this brutal correction. Using momentum indicators like moving averages, the RSI and MACD indicator, we'll find uptrending stocks near levels of support that could present buying opportunities for short-term traders.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Waste Management Inc. </h2>
Companies that handle waste management are always popular for investors when markets turn down, so why not look into the one named Waste Management? Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) is the most prominent firm for refuse, trash and recycling disposal, with a market cap of over $91 billion and more than 61,000 full-time employees.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcZL3vJWdy9mc4ULh_EYW3KRosf-RVlO5laU2oHJE_k_P9Xs8V2JGjCrgDofjGblioR0YzQl28cpODN8ESdWoELqo6QuptWwgQ10VZFBl1OH6eqCNfJhD7YTpb32aP56pXl40_2?key=73UwJ_m8OrinMYHdccBNtIme" alt="" /></figure>
While stocks like WM are usually long-term investments designed to outperform in bear markets, this one might also have some promise in the short term. WM shares recently pulled back to $220 from $234 but bounced higher at the 50-day moving average, indicating a possible support level. The stock price also trades above the 10-day and 20-day moving averages, lending more evidence to the uptrend remaining in place. The MACD also appears to be heading toward a bullish crossover, and the RSI sits comfortably at 54. WM also has a Benzinga Edge Momentum score of 77.14, which is far from the highest on our list, but yet another signal that this stock has more upside potential ahead.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Howmet Aerospace Inc.</h2>
Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HWM#NYSE">HWM</a>) has another appealing chart showing strong technical signals for more upward momentum. While not as well-known as aerospace companies like Lockheed Martin or Boeing, Howmet is still a massive firm with a $52 billion market cap and nearly 24,000 full-time employees. The company primarily produces jet engine components, fastening systems and airframe structures.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeTjt1IU1NHLFNbnSzY-W_Vu785ZBsX8qrI0uCi4V3ctlPlDVWokaLFO73PQH1I6MycrUxDhUByza20wWVHU_kKatGP4_LlwMpCgGDF6fJPfr0a7280-Uo-dgn5ITUiGsrqn0EX?key=73UwJ_m8OrinMYHdccBNtIme" alt="" /></figure>
Howmet has one of the highest Benzinga Edge Momentum scores at 96.01, and it&#8217;s not difficult to see why when looking at the daily chart. Since the start of 2025, HWM shares have hugged the 50-day moving average as a support level and the two previous encounters saw the stock bounce higher in the coming days. The 50-day and 200-day moving averages both confirm the uptrend, in addition to the bullish MACD crossover and an RSI signal well below overbought levels. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Life Time Group Holdings Inc. </h2>
Life Time Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LTH#NYSE">LTH</a>) is a health and wellness brand with 170 fitness centers across the United States and Canada. The company specializes in lifestyle experiences through physical activities, classes and family-oriented environments. The firm's clubs contain tennis, basketball, and pickleball courts, as well as traditional gym equipment, spas, pools and a bistro for healthy food.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdQnMschF4PFN5VwmzAgns5JrT8Er7BJnYEfGy1rfAxMQanPDQfJJIHa3qwgiTQWp8zwN_Sy77IupbQFH9JItKKfv8vzeX7gK6bEBIw8jTfoDAahOySbGXqw0qa3qgKHtqrmtbkcw?key=73UwJ_m8OrinMYHdccBNtIme" alt="" /></figure>
The LTH hourly chart seems to be showing an opportunity for a short-term gain. The stock has spent the last week in a choppy decline, but the RSI recently dipped below 30, triggering an oversold signal. Another bullish signal may be forming as the 5-day moving average appears on a path to cross the 10-day moving average. On the daily chart, the 50-day MA is acting as support and remains elevated above the 200-day MA; hence, the LTH shares carry a Benzinga Edge Momentum score of 96.09, the highest of any stock on our list today.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Clearway Energy Inc. </h2>
Clean energy enthusiasm has certainly dampened moving from the Biden administration to the Trump administration, but many clean energy stocks continue to soar as the rest of the market stumbles. Clearway Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CWEN#NYSE">CWEN</a>) is one of those companies, and its stock is up over 20% since the first week of 2025.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXftAaaECxmggzvR-BHOwsqKbPikpZc443nzfWFSl0jBGrjcolVBnWLKkDUZSMEEauCp6je0aMDUb_HaDcjRV6uCAcstebnZS70e-6iEHiXF1YI7Je793NTn74MYEhqnKVLIRc_7?key=73UwJ_m8OrinMYHdccBNtIme" alt="" /></figure>
CWEN may have more runway to the upside as one of the most significant bullish signals was recently triggered on the daily chart- the 50-day MA crossed over the 200-day MA. A bullish crossover always catches the eye of short-term traders. CWEN's Benzinga Edge Momentum score is a strong 84.19. However, traders must watch the RSI, as this recent upswing has brought it close to 70, where the traditional overbought signal kicks in.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. </h2>
Zim Integrated Shipping (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZIM#NYSE">ZIM</a>) is a cargo transportation firm based in Israel. It has a $1.86 billion market cap and owns a fleet of ships with access to all major global trading routes. ZIM isn't a company where analysts or market pundits are very high in the long term (hence its consensus Sell rating), but a critical buying signal was just triggered on the short-term chart.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdCHonwaC7zRLkp5MZZEj-OQ5KW3cHGKdllVs-bNfUDhP07Kl2m7HBB3TZKKyqblsTzboAhgGcKAr1gjEHzm3cmxjk8rOZOFhprxKKim0SAq7LgQnYb8p_NboA8I2Ly3jhkR7-AjQ?key=73UwJ_m8OrinMYHdccBNtIme" alt="" /></figure>
ZIM shares recently hit oversold on the RSI, and historically. This has been a good profit opportunity for shrewd traders. Before this week, the most recent instance of an RSI oversold signal occurred on January 21; the stock price rose from $16.24 to $21.80 in less than a month. Another oversold signal struck back in March 2024, and by the start of June, the stock had doubled from $10 to $20. ZIM shares have earned a Benzinga Edge Momentum score of 78.36, so watch this company for more evidence of a momentum reversal.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trading Q1 Earnings Volatility: The Secrets You Need to Know</h2>
Markets move fast during earnings season, but the traders who act on the right information first are the ones who profit. Join Matt Maley, a 35-year Wall Street veteran, on Wednesday, April 2, at 6 PM ET, as he reveals his strategy for navigating the volatility this season. You'll learn how to spot the earnings trades with the biggest potential, how to manage risk, and the key adjustments to make in your strategy to maximize profits. Don't wait for the media to react—<a href="https://events2.benzinga.com/matt-maley-webinar-wed-apr2-2025-registration">register now </a>to stay ahead.
Photo: Shutterstock

Mid Cap

Opinion

CWEN

5 Trades To Consider Today On This Trend Signal

Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 1.23% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 19.56%. Currently, Waste Management has a market capitalization of $90.44 billion. 
Buying $1000 In WM: If an investor had bought $1000 of WM stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,559.58 today based on a price of $224.91 for WM at the time of writing.
<h3>Waste Management's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742595308_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $1000 In This Stock 5 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer recommended buying Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>), adding that it's a &#8220;super strong buy, a lifetime super <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WM/analyst-ratings">strong buy.&#8221;</a>
Supporting his view, CIBC analyst Kevin Chiang raised the price target on the stock from $227 to $247 on March 5. On Jan. 29, the company reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter sales, posting quarterly sales of $5.89 billion, which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $5.77 billion.
Cramer said he doesn't like Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEZL#NASDAQ">SEZL</a>) right now. &#8220;I think that there's a lot of these companies, and that's kind of the problem,&#8221; he said.
On the earnings front, Sezzle reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter adjusted EPS results on Feb. 25. The company posted adjusted earnings of $4.39 per share, beating market estimates of $3.12 per share. The company's total revenue, less transaction-related costs, was $54.30 million.
On March 10, Sezzle announced a $50 million stock repurchase program.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Waste Management shares fell 0.2% to settle at $226.90 on Thursday.</li>
<li>Sezzle shares gained 0.8% to close at $231.96 during the session.</li>
</ul>
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Long Ideas

Media

SEZL

Jim Cramer: This Industrial Stock Is 'Super Strong Buy, A Lifetime Super Strong Buy'

Uncertainty has taken over the market. Business and consumer sentiment data are souring as markets tumble and tariff policy continues to lack rhyme or reason. The St Louis Fed's US Economic Policy Uncertainty Index has spiked to its highest level since December 2020. The University of Michigan Survey of Consumers dropped nearly 10% from January to February and is now down 17% year-over-year.
Business owners continue to mention tariff uncertainty in surveys. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Optimism Index fell in February while the NFIB Uncertainty Index rose to its second-highest recorded level. Complicating matters are increasing inflation expectations for 2025, which could put the Federal Reserve in a tight spot between cutting rates to spur growth or keeping rates unchanged to limit higher prices. 
This precarious cocktail has investors on edge as U.S. stocks lag global markets. While it&#8217;s too soon to talk about a recession being imminent, it&#8217;s a good time to start thinking defensively.
Here are five stocks with solid fundamentals in sectors that tend to do well when the economy slows.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Republic Services Inc. </h2>
When investors think of waste management services, they usually conjure the aptly-named Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>). However, the lesser-known Republic Services (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSG#NYSE">RSG</a>) also runs integrated commercial, residential and industrial solid waste services with over 200 landfills and an additional 246 transfer stations. Contrasted to its larger rival WM, RSG has a comparable P/E ratio, better margins and a significantly better Price to Free Cash Flow (P/FCF) per Share (35.05 vs 41.89). The stock has also increased over 27% in the last 12 months, compared to just 8.7% for WM shares.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeQYUQ7_3cydY16LLDXhy3tPx67ZBSbD7zAXm0LZSi_YK4jG4znK7-82n9tBY5nW0cqOW7is2NPxTCd_cARmCuMp4QR8eNg7kqvhrXpbLNFEC4kUxm6UeZZqvS3ZrUS1B9-0NtJPQ?key=95UsgwGzx44WuMDzrgOVhBOD" alt="" /></figure>
RSG shares pulled back in the first week of March, but the Relative Strength Index (RSI) recently diverged upward, indicating that volume may be accumulating for the next leg higher. RSG also scores well in two crucial Benzinga Edge metrics: 86.20 in Momentum and 88.57 in Quality. On March 4, analysts at CIBC upgraded the stock from Neutral to Outperform, with a price target of $265. UBS, Goldman Sachs and Stifel also boosted price targets on the stock in the last month.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ollie's Bargain Outlet Holdings Inc. </h2>
Dollar stores and discount retailers are often popular picks during economic slowdowns. Still, investors must be careful in this environment not to count on stocks with thin margins and heavy reliance on imports. Ollie's Bargain Outlet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLLI#NASDAQ">OLLI</a>) is a purveyor of excess buildup, meaning it purchases overstocked or overproduced items from manufacturers and wholesalers and sells them at its warehouses at a deep discount.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfcG4FxVYqcba9omEUNAKhflz5JRExFu1Px6XY5nPkQcPj67Y-TVlR7m6_ZlshjheXqH-h9pqOR38SrnD7MdEu0b4YSeZYeJwzQDKHNFYHShJVJsOyvNU8z4qDFgWmZtPRSpp08LA?key=95UsgwGzx44WuMDzrgOVhBOD" alt="" /></figure>
Ollie's business model gives it a leg up over traditional discount retailers like Dollar Tree. The company's 9% profit margin towers over figures from Dollar Tree, Dollar General and even larger chains like Walmart and Target. Ollie's has boosted revenue by nearly 8% year-over-year, but the stock is down almost 10% in the last three months.
However, as the chart above shows, a buying opportunity could be materializing right now. The upward momentum has stalled, but a bullish wedge is forming, which could signal buyers are consolidating in preparation for a new breakout. Keep an eye on this pattern for a potential breakout as the price range continues to condense.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kimberly-Clark Corp. </h2>
Household products like paper towels, toilet paper, hygiene products, detergents and other cleaning supplies have very inelastic demand, so these companies are often popular investments during recessions or economic slowdowns. Kimberly-Clark Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMB#NYSE">KMB</a>) is our pick for this particular industry thanks to its attractive valuation, strong dividend and potential breakout from a multi-year trading range.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXe-m4j-kU00Tja9IKDpC0ML9BehtIIiHcg_Khf25LWmceJmSwZPKUigPpvh_NxgYsCwZngce9DWDIFOzAVATHMzu0VkQQDJnwaUC8ZHpMBDVtQLNa6u25Fx6_7_M1th3U1ieBQ50A?key=95UsgwGzx44WuMDzrgOVhBOD" alt="" /></figure>
KMB shares recently reached a nearly five-year high, smashing through a resistance level that had been in place since the end of 2020. This promising technical signal is supported by strong fundamental data as well. KMB trades at just 19 times earnings, far lower than competitors like Proctor and Gamble and Colgate-Palmolive. It also trades at just 2.4 times sales while maintaining a healthy 12.7% profit margin. KMB pays a 3.5% dividend and the recent breakout has boosted its Benzinga Edge Momentum score to 71.54 &#8211; a rare occurrence in the consumer staples sector.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unum Group </h2>
Here's an insurance company that very few investors have heard about but has the prettiest-looking chart of the bunch. Unum Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNM#NYSE">UNM</a>) provides individual income protection plans to clients in the United States, United Kingdom and Poland while also offering long-term care, life and employee-benefit insurance plans through segments like Colonial Life and Closed Block.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdknAMM85XGJH8djOqkIt-uokaPzFLoS-Iv7YSxhVd04dtjb74hN7kl6219XOMHhTQmGfzDsvfpNbR72bwlBbkPS1k6hINLxoO1eCGpJme2MxixnPxzuqHp2vryBg0MQS1b9A2n?key=95UsgwGzx44WuMDzrgOVhBOD" alt="" /></figure>
Unum Group performed exceptionally well during the 2022 bear market, posting positive gains when most stocks suffered prolonged drawdowns. UNM shares staged a rally in 2024 and have risen by over 60% in the last 12 months. From a fundamental standpoint, the company is in a strong position with 1.27 P/B Value Per Share, 8.3 P/E ratio and 13.9% profit margin. UNM shares also grade out exceptionally well in three crucial Benzinga Edge metrics: Momentum (94.60), Value (89.28) and Quality (84.32).
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Berkshire Hathaway Inc.</h2>
When Uncle Warren starts raising cash, investors start paying attention. The Oracle of Omaha has been selling stock to increase Berkshire's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) cash pile, and while a 94-year-old insurance CEO may have different investment goals than the rest of us, it&#8217;s worth noting when Buffett begins stacking dry powder.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc-bLC_d9K-RvtDyN99OcIiYYgI6WjcwCG67aV6slY2NIeGDqcU2N7BywlpEWDUzQZb7zi1f-wpQoiSiwpw1f-NsuVs-Dr2nMAl6nZQ312bH3LGPs0kRmEckODPZ51eaJrONLSa?key=95UsgwGzx44WuMDzrgOVhBOD" alt="" /></figure>
Buffett's cash pile is not unusual considering his long-term track record. While Buffett praises buy-and-hold strategies for retail investors, he himself has always been a bit of a market timer. His cash horde suggests he's waiting for volatility to wane before putting new capital to work.
Whether a recession materializes or not, stocks like BRK.B are good places to harbor while waiting for calmer waters to return. Berkshire's free cash flow pile stands at an impressive $11.6 billion with the stock trading at 12 times earnings. The insurance giant also grades well in Benzinga Edge in terms of Momentum (82.74) and Value (73.69). The stock chart shows some consolidation over the last week and the upward trend remains in place.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Trade The Fed's Next Move: Live On Wednesday</h2>
Markets are on edge ahead of the Fed's March 20 announcement. Stocks, bonds and key sectors are set to move fast—do you have a strategy in place? Join Nic Chahine <a href="https://events2.benzinga.com/nic-chahine-webinar-wed-mar19-2025-registration">live on Wednesday</a>, March 19, at 6 PM ET to get a real-time trading blueprint for one of the biggest market events of the year. Register now.
Photo: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Federal Reserve

OLLI

5 Recession-Proof Stocks To Consider As Economic Fears Grow

Waste Management's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) short percent of float has fallen 6.45% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 3.48 million shares sold short, which is 0.87% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.22 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Waste Management Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742329823_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Waste Management has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Waste Management's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Waste Management's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 6.41%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Is Waste Management Gaining or Losing Market Support?

The Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation takes a highly concentrated approach to managing its endowment, with just three stocks accounting for 65% of its $44 billion equity portfolio, according to a <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1166559/000110465925014123/xslForm13F_X02/infotable.xml">document filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last month</a>.
Microsoft (NASDQ: MSFT) leads the foundation&#8217;s holdings at 28.5% of the portfolio, followed by Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) at 21.2% and Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) at 15.4%, reflecting both Gates&#8217; tech background and Warren Buffett&#8217;s influence on the foundation&#8217;s investment strategy.
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Since its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/03/20968876/5-things-you-might-not-about-melinda-gates-1">inception as a global health initiative in 1994</a>, the foundation has distributed $47.7 billion over three decades, making Bill and Melinda Gates the second most generous philanthropists behind only Warren Buffett and his family, according to <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2025/02/23/billionaire-bill-gates-has-65-of-his-foundations-4/">The Motley Fool</a>.
Microsoft remains the largest position, with just under 28.5 million shares worth about $11.8 billion, stemming primarily from Gates&#8217; 2022 donation of more than 38 million shares. The trust has benefited from the stock&#8217;s 70% surge since late 2022 amid growing AI investments.
According to The Motley Fool, Microsoft&#8217;s performance has been driven by its Azure cloud computing platform, which benefits from the company&#8217;s $13 billion investment in OpenAI, and the integration of AI features into enterprise software through various Copilot products.
Trending: The secret weapon in billionaire investor portfolios that you almost certainly don't own yet. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">See which asset class has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 (1995-2024) – and with near-zero correlation.</a>
Berkshire Hathaway is the second-largest holding, with 19.7 million Class B shares valued at approximately $9.5 billion. The shares come through Buffett&#8217;s annual donations, according to The Motley Fool, though the trust typically sells some positions yearly to comply with Buffett&#8217;s requirement that the foundation distribute his entire donation plus an additional 5% of its net assets annually.
Despite selling 11% of its Berkshire stake last quarter, the foundation has maintained a dominant position in the company, which recently surpassed a $1 trillion valuation.
Waste Management completes the top three holdings as one of the foundation&#8217;s longest-held investments. The company recently acquired Stericycle and forecasts 16% revenue growth for 2025.
The concentrated approach across technology, diversified holdings, and essential services has helped the foundation maintain its substantial endowment while continuing its global philanthropic mission.
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Microsoft, Berkshire, And Waste Management Dominate Bill Gates' $44 Billion Foundation Portfolio

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer said Arthur J. Gallagher &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AJG#NYSE">AJG</a>) is just a &#8220;solid&#8221; company. &#8220;Sometimes stocks are just kind of just quietly going up, and that's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AJG">one of them,&#8221; he added.</a>
As per the recent news, Arthur J. Gallagher, on Monday, announced it has acquired the remaining shares of Philippines-based Philpacific Insurance Brokers &amp; Managers, Inc., or Philinsure.
&#8220;I'm not going to repeat my bullishness on it. Would be a mistake,&#8221; Cramer said when asked about Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>).
As per the recent earnings report, Nu, on Feb. 20, said it added 4.5 million customers in the fourth quarter, bringing total global customers up to 114.2 million as of Dec. 31, up 22% year-over-year.
Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) is &#8220;fantastic,&#8221; the Mad Money host said.
Supporting his view, CIBC, on March 5, raised the price target on the stock from $227 to $247.
When asked about fuboTV Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FUBO#NYSE">FUBO</a>), he said, &#8220;I'm going to have to say ix-nay.&#8221;
On Feb. 28, FuboTV reported earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024. Revenue of the sports-first live TV streaming platform grew 8.1% year over year to $443.277 million, marginally missing the analyst consensus estimate of $445.798 million.
AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AB#NYSE">AB</a>) is just a &#8220;great&#8221; company, Cramer said, &#8220;All systems go there.&#8221;
On Feb. 24, Equitable Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQH#NYSE">EQH</a>) announced a cash tender offer for up to 46 million units of AllianceBernstein at $38.50 per unit.
Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OXY#NYSE">OXY</a>) has &#8220;got a lot of debt, and it's just not that great,&#8221; Cramer said, &#8220;Get a better oil.&#8221;
Supporting his view, Raymond James analyst John Freeman, on Monday, downgraded Occidental Petroleum from Strong Buy to Outperform and lowered the price target from $81 to $64.
Cramer said he needs to do some work on Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WDC#NASDAQ">WDC</a>).
Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Matthew Prisco, on March 7, maintained Western Digital with an Overweight rating and lowered the price target from $95 to $65.
When asked about Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMAT#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>), he said, &#8220;I've got to tell you, capital equipment is so tied up with China that I can't just get behind it anymore, even though I love these companies.&#8221;
On Monday, Applied Materials announced that its board of directors had approved a 15% increase in the quarterly cash dividend, marking eight consecutive years of higher dividends. The Board also approved a new share repurchase to buy back an additional $10 billion of its shares over time.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Arthur J. Gallagher shares fell 0.2% to settle at $325.08 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Nu Holdings shares gained 2.7% to close at $10.89 during the session.</li>
<li>Waste Management shares fell 0.6% to settle at $222.86.</li>
<li>Applied Materials shares gained 1.4% to close at $149.06.</li>
<li>Fubotv shares gained 0.3% to close at $3.10 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>AllianceBernstein shares settled at $36.87.</li>
<li>Occidental Petroleum shares fell 0.4% to close at $46.10.</li>
<li>Western Digital shares rose 2.8% to close at $42.96 on Wednesday.</li>
</ul>
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44274110/top-2-industrials-stocks-that-may-collapse-in-march">Top 2 Industrials Stocks That May Collapse In March</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

AMAT

FUBO

Jim Cramer: Arthur J. Gallagher Is 'Solid,' This Industrial Company Is 'Fantastic'

Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 2.46% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 13.43%. Currently, Waste Management has a market capitalization of $91.67 billion. 
Buying $1000 In WM: If an investor had bought $1000 of WM stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $6,641.38 today based on a price of $227.96 for WM at the time of writing.
<h3>Waste Management's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1741703415_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $1000 In This Stock 15 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Across the recent three months, 9 analysts have shared their insights on Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $245.11, with a high estimate of $255.00 and a low estimate of $235.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 3.33% increase from the previous average price target of $237.22.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1741204815_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Analyzing Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Breakdown</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Waste Management is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Chiang</td>
<td>CIBC</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$247.00</td>
<td>$227.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bryan Burgmeier</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$255.00</td>
<td>$242.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Konark Gupta</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Outperform</td>
<td>$255.00</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Noah Kaye</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$237.00</td>
<td>$231.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Tyler Brown</td>
<td>Raymond James</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$237.00</td>
<td>$235.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeffrey Goldstein</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$235.00</td>
<td>$227.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Konark Gupta</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Outperform</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
<td>$225.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephanie Moore</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$238.00</td>
<td>$255.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Hoffman</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$252.00</td>
<td>$243.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Waste Management. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Waste Management compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Waste Management's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Waste Management's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WM/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Waste Management analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Waste Management</h2>
WM ranks as the largest integrated provider of traditional solid waste services in the United States, operating 263 active landfills and about 332 transfer stations. The company serves residential, commercial, industrial, and medical end markets and is also a leading recycler in North America.
<h3>Waste Management's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Waste Management's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 12.96% as of 31 December, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company stands out with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Industrials sector.
Net Margin: Waste Management's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 10.15%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Waste Management's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 7.37%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Waste Management's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 1.51% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: Waste Management's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 2.9. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What 9 Analyst Ratings Have To Say About Waste Management

CIBC analyst Kevin Chiang maintains Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $227 to $247.

CIBC Maintains Neutral on Waste Management, Raises Price Target to $247

In the current market session, Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) stock price is at $231.53, after a 0.96% drop. However, over the past month, the company's stock spiked by 4.23%, and in the past year, by 11.36%. Shareholders might be interested in knowing whether the stock is overvalued, even if the company is not performing up to par in the current session. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1741110356_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>A Look at Waste Management P/E Relative to Its Competitors</h3>
The P/E ratio measures the current share price to the company's EPS. It is used by long-term investors to analyze the company's current performance against it's past earnings, historical data and aggregate market data for the industry or the indices, such as S&amp;P 500. A higher P/E indicates that investors expect the company to perform better in the future, and the stock is probably overvalued, but not necessarily. It also could indicate that investors are willing to pay a higher share price currently, because they expect the company to perform better in the upcoming quarters. This leads investors to also remain optimistic about rising dividends in the future. 
Waste Management has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 77.77 of the Commercial Services &amp; Supplies industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1741110356_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

In the current session, the stock is trading at $229.17, after a 0.21% spike. Over the past month, Waste Management Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) stock increased by 3.36%, and in the past year, by 11.72%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are optimistic but others are more likely to look into the price-to-earnings ratio to see if the stock might be overvalued.

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1740675635_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>A Look at Waste Management P/E Relative to Its Competitors</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Compared to the aggregate P/E ratio of the 76.61 in the Commercial Services &amp; Supplies industry, Waste Management Inc. has a lower P/E ratio of 33.58. Shareholders might be inclined to think that the stock might perform worse than it's industry peers. It's also possible that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1740675635_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Waste Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WM#NYSE">WM</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 2.38% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 10.79%. Currently, Waste Management has a market capitalization of $92.03 billion. 
Buying $100 In WM: If an investor had bought $100 of WM stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $779.39 today based on a price of $229.30 for WM at the time of writing.
<h3>Waste Management's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739894409_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 20 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Press Releases

WM Announces 10% Dividend Rate Increase for 2025

WM Sets Date for Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Earnings Release Conference Call

Former WM CEO David Steiner Joins AMP's Board of Directors

WM Announces Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Earnings

WM Announces Cash Dividend

WM to Host 2025 Investor Day on June 24

Gabelli Funds to Host 11th Annual Waste & Sustainability Symposium Thursday, April 3, 2025

WM Sets Date for First Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call

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WM Announces New, Modernized High-Tech Recycling and Renewable Gas Facilities across U.S.

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