Waste Management (WM) has initiated numerous recycling and renewable natural gas (RNG) projects amounting to $323 million, with advanced recycling and RNG facilities spread across the US. Even though the WM stock has risen 16% year-to-date, experts continue to deliberate whether it's a buy, hold or sell choice for investors. Despite some reservations about the company's high debt, many see WM as an excellent investment with strong growth potential. WM's Q4 earnings underperformed estimates while its robust Q4 and 2024 earnings followed a 10% leap in its legacy business. The company bagged accolades, with Jim Cramer referring to WM as 'fantastic' and 'A Super Strong Buy,' while it also stood amongst the top insider stock buys and a preferred ethical stock on Reddit. However, WM is also facing investigation in West Virginia and job reduction claims. Furthermore, WM's announcement of a 10% dividend rate increase for 2025 and strong projected performance for 2025 boost its attractiveness to investors. The conviction in WM is reinforced by the 82% institutional ownership. WM's advancements also cast it as one of the leading green stocks, while its zero-waste approach to events and strengthening of communication regarding its environmental impact inspire confidence.
