WM positions itself as a "forever stock" underpinned by consistent strong results, disciplined strategy aligned with secular trends, and technological implementation. The company's diversified business model, including sustainability and healthcare services, provides recession resilience, with core business showing strong demand recovery.
Cyborg Score Rationale
WM projects 2026 revenue of $26.43-$26.63 billion with adjusted operating EBITDA of $8.15-$8.25 billion. The company expects nearly 30% free cash flow growth at the midpoint of 2026 guidance, driven by operational excellence and strategic investments.
Top Insights
WM announced a 14.5% dividend increase for 2026 to $3.78 per share, extending its 23-year streak of dividend increases and signaling confidence in cash generation strength.
The company completed Healthcare Solutions integration during Q4 2025, expecting benefits in customer engagement, cross-selling, and operating cost optimization in 2026.
WM is expanding its industry-leading renewable energy and recycling networks, expecting to complete six additional renewable natural gas plants and four recycling projects in 2026.
Employee retention improved approximately 19% year-over-year through intentional focus on creating career opportunities for drivers and technicians.
Named Competitors
Waste Connections — Integrated waste services provider across North America
Republic Services — Leading waste and recycling services company
GFL Environmental — North American waste and environmental services provider
Veolia North America — Global environmental solutions company
Recent Developments
(February 2026) 14.5% dividend increase to $3.78 per share and $3 billion share repurchase authorization announced
(February 2026) Q4 2025 earnings show 13.3% operating EBITDA growth with Healthcare Solutions margin improving to 13.5% from 1.0% in 2024
(January 2026) $1.4 billion investment in new recycling infrastructure for increased plastic and paper waste handling
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