In turbulent market periods, investors typically gravitate toward defensive stocks. However, recent activity surrounding Waste Management Inc. presents a complex picture, with major financial institutions and equity researchers sending conflicting signals about the waste disposal giant’s prospects.
Analysts Maintain a Constructive Outlook
Despite some institutional selling pressure, the analyst community continues to express confidence. JPMorgan Chase recently increased its price target for Waste Management to $265, reiterating an “Overweight” rating on the shares. UBS analysts similarly view waste management companies as a stable investment haven amidst ongoing market volatility.
This positive stance is underpinned by the company’s resilient business model, which provides essential services. A key growth driver has been the successful integration of the Stericycle acquisition, finalized in late 2024, which significantly bolstered Waste Management’s capabilities in the medical waste segment.
Investor attention is now turning to the upcoming quarterly earnings report, scheduled for release in late January 2026, which is anticipated to provide fresh momentum for the stock.
Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Waste Management?
Institutional Investors Adjust Holdings
Recent regulatory filings reveal a nuanced stance among large-scale investors. State Street Corp., one of the largest institutional holders of Waste Management stock, reduced its position by approximately 0.6%, selling 103,867 shares. Market observers interpret this move as a routine portfolio rebalancing rather than a loss of conviction, noting that the firm retains a dominant stake valued at around $4.2 billion.
A more pronounced reduction came from London & Capital Asset Management Ltd. The investment house slashed its Waste Management holding by 53.8%, equivalent to 96,970 shares. This substantial percentage decrease suggests a strategic divergence from the positioning of other major institutional players.
Current Trading and Shareholder Returns
The equity is currently trading near €179, demonstrating resilience despite minor daily losses as it consolidates close to a significant support level. The company has confirmed a dividend payment of $0.825 per share, scheduled for December 19, 2025, highlighting its ongoing commitment to returning capital to shareholders.
Ad
Waste Management Stock: Buy or Sell?! New Waste Management Analysis from December 11 delivers the answer:
The latest Waste Management figures speak for themselves: Urgent action needed for Waste Management investors. Is it worth buying or should you sell? Find out what to do now in the current free analysis from December 11.
Waste Management: Buy or sell? Read more here...
