Waste Management Shares Rise 0.81% on 53.81% Trading Volume Surge Ranks 276th in Market Activity as Institutions Hold 78.34% Stake and Analysts Back 15.2% Upside Potential

On August 29, 2025, Waste Management (WM) rose 0.81% with a trading volume of $350 million, a 53.81% increase from the prior day, ranking 276th in market activity. Recent news highlights include insider selling of $60,767 in the last quarter, institutional ownership at 78.34%, and a dividend yield of 1.79% supported by 20 consecutive years of growth. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating, with a price target of $180.25, indicating a potential 15.2% upside from current levels. The company’s ESG score of 33.08% underscores environmental initiatives, including plastic recycling and waste-sorting technologies, aligning with sustainability-focused investor trends.

Short interest in WM increased by 19.52% month-over-month, reflecting a 3.3-day cover ratio, though institutional confidence remains high. Earnings growth projections of 11.58% for fiscal 2025 highlight operational resilience, supported by a P/E ratio of 28.14, below both sector and market averages. Recent operational updates include employee education benefits and a $2 billion senior notes issuance, reinforcing financial flexibility. Despite mixed media sentiment and reduced search interest, the stock’s low short interest and strong dividend sustainability position it as a defensive play in the industrials sector.

Backtest data from August 29 to September 29, 2025, shows a 0.81% gain in WM shares amid a 53.81% surge in trading volume. This period aligns with the company’s quarterly earnings release and dividend ex-date, suggesting short-term momentum driven by institutional activity and earnings optimism. Analyst price targets and valuation metrics remain unchanged, emphasizing long-term growth potential in waste management and environmental services.