Waste Management Stock Surges 1.91% Amid 57.57% Volume Slump Ranks 294th in Market Activity

On August 19, 2025, Waste Management (WM) rose 1.91% as trading volume fell to $0.33 billion, a 57.57% decline from the prior day, ranking it 294th in market activity. The stock’s performance aligns with broader industry tailwinds as the global waste management sector is projected to expand to $1.6 trillion by 2029, driven by government initiatives against illegal waste disposal, technological advancements in recycling, and rising e-waste generation. Non-hazardous industrial waste management is expected to lead growth, fueled by urbanization, construction activity, and aging populations. Landfill remains the largest disposal method, with modern facilities managing non-recyclable waste amid growing residential and commercial waste streams. North America, the largest regional market, benefits from stringent regulations and industrial demand, particularly in the U.S., where key players like Waste Management are central to infrastructure development.

Recent sector developments include strategic acquisitions such as SUEZ’s expansion in the Czech Republic and Veolia’s collaboration on hazardous waste treatment. These moves highlight competitive dynamics in the space but do not directly impact Waste Management’s operations. The commercial waste segment, driven by urbanization and hospitality growth, is anticipated to see moderate expansion. Recycling initiatives, including partnerships to scale post-consumer resin production, underscore the industry’s shift toward sustainable practices. However, the company’s stock response to these trends remains muted compared to broader market volatility.

A backtest of a strategy buying the top 500 stocks by daily volume and holding for one day showed a total profit of $2,940 from December 2022 to August 2025, with a maximum drawdown of $1,960, reflecting a 19.6% peak-to-trough decline over the period.