Raymond James maintains Outperform on Waste Management stock

Published 04/03/2025, 14:38
Raymond James maintains Outperform on Waste Management stock

On Tuesday, Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James analyst Patrick Tyler Brown maintained an Outperform rating on Waste Management (NYSE:WM) with a steady price target of $237.00. With the stock currently trading at $233.78 and near its 52-week high of $235.81, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is currently trading above its Fair Value. Brown highlighted the company’s significant investments in sustainability as a key factor in this positive outlook.

Waste Management, with its robust market capitalization of $94 billion and impressive 8% revenue growth over the last twelve months, has been recognized for its extensive sustainability capital expenditures, which are set to surpass those of its competitors. The company’s strategy involves full ownership rather than joint ventures, focusing on maximizing the potential of its valuable landfill assets. Management at Waste Management has confirmed that these investments should yield quick returns, with renewable natural gas (RNG) plants expected to pay back within 2-3 years, and recycling projects within 6-7 years.

These sustainability projects are projected to contribute an additional $800 million to the company’s EBITDA by the end of 2027, building upon its current EBITDA of $6.57 billion. Despite this significant increase, management anticipates that the sustainability EBITDA will constitute less than 10% of the total consolidated EBITDA. Moreover, the cash flow conversion rate from these green initiatives is forecasted to be between 60-70%, compared to the company’s overall free cash flow (FCF) conversion rate, which is just under 50% when excluding green capital expenditures. InvestingPro subscribers can access 15+ additional key insights about Waste Management’s financial health and growth prospects.

Waste Management’s approach to sustainability investments not only underscores its commitment to environmental responsibility but also demonstrates a strategic business move expected to enhance its financial performance in the long term. With an overall financial health score of "GOOD" according to InvestingPro, and a consistent track record of maintaining dividend payments for 28 consecutive years, the company’s ability to generate higher cash flow conversion rates from these investments may offer promising prospects for future growth and profitability.

In other recent news, Waste Management reported its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024, revealing an earnings per share (EPS) of $1.70, which fell short of the forecasted $1.82. However, the company exceeded revenue expectations, reporting $5.89 billion compared to the anticipated $5.67 billion. This mixed performance reflects the company’s ability to drive revenue growth despite earnings pressures. Jefferies raised its price target for Waste Management to $257, maintaining a Buy rating, following a robust financial quarter with revenue and EBITDA surpassing consensus expectations. Similarly, Stifel maintained a Buy rating on Waste Management, with a price target of $252, citing the company’s strong fourth-quarter performance and optimistic forecast for fiscal year 2025. Erste Group also upgraded Waste Management stock from Hold to Buy, noting strong growth prospects and an attractive valuation. Oppenheimer maintained its Outperform rating, highlighting positive market conditions for renewable natural gas and the integration of WM Healthcare Solutions. These recent developments indicate ongoing confidence in Waste Management’s strategic direction and potential for growth.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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