How did RSG's Q4 2024 earnings surprise impact investor sentiment?

Republic Services' (RSG) Q4 2024 earnings surprise had a positive impact on investor sentiment, as evidenced by the following: 1. **Earnings Surprise**: RSG reported an EPS surprise of $0.17 for Q4 2024, which was a positive indicator of the company's financial performance. 2. **Analyst Consensus Rating**: The majority of analysts had a "Strong Buy" rating on RSG, indicating confidence in the company's future performance. 3. **Historical Performance**: RSG's track record of beating earnings estimates, as seen in Q3 2024, likely contributed to positive sentiment among investors. The company reported earnings of $1.81 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.62 per share. 4. **Market Expectations**: Prior to the earnings release, the market expected RSG to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues for Q3 2024, which was aligned with the company's historical growth trajectory. 5. **Investor Confidence**: Jefferies, a financial institution, raised RSG's target price to $235, maintaining a "Buy" rating, which reflects confidence in the company's continued growth and profitability. Overall, RSG's Q4 2024 earnings surprise, coupled with positive analyst ratings and expectations, contributed to a positive sentiment among investors.