People Keep Paying for Trash Pickup. Here's Why I'd Buy the Company Collecting the Checks.

Waste Management (WM) is highlighted as a solid investment opportunity due to its reliable business model, steady revenue growth of 8.7% annually, and strong free cash flow of $3 billion in the first nine months of 2026. The company returns value to shareholders through dividends (1.6% yield) and a $3 billion share buyback program. However, investors should be aware of risks including a high P/E ratio of 31x, rising operational costs, and a substantial $23 billion net debt load that becomes more expensive with elevated interest rates.