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Is Waste Management a Safe Dividend Stock to Buy Right Now?

Parkev Tatevosian, CFA•Sep 25, 2026

Summary

Parkev provides a thorough analysis of Waste Management, highlighting its role as a defensive asset that provides stability during uncertain economic times. Although the company faces headwinds such as rising fuel costs and lowered revenue guidance, Parkev notes that the business maintains strong operational efficiency and consistent organic growth. Parkev emphasizes that the primary appeal of the stock lies in its ability to offer portfolio diversification, as the business is less impacted by consumer disposable income levels compared to more cyclical stocks.

Waste Management: Parkev examines the company's financial health, noting that while revenue has nearly doubled over the past decade through organic growth and acquisitions, the company struggles with capital allocation effectiveness, reflected in a modest return on invested capital of approximately 8.6%. Parkev updated the discounted cash flow model to project free cash flow of $3.8 billion in 2026, growing to $4.8 billion by 2030, which leads to a fair value estimate of $199 per share. Because the stock is currently trading around $211, Parkev views it as fairly valued but ultimately considers it a buying opportunity due to the low-risk profile, despite noting a low conviction level in this assessment.

Mentioned Stocks

WM
Sentiment: BUYAction: RECOMMENDED

Reasoning: Parkev recommends the stock as a defensive buying opportunity because the risk-reward ratio is favorable given current economic conditions. Parkev notes a fair value of $199 against a market price of $211, highlighting the stock's defensive nature and diversification benefits despite a low conviction level.

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