Here's 1 Top Dividend Stock to Buy and Hold Forever

Core Viewpoint - The waste management industry, while not glamorous, offers impressive long-term returns and stability compared to more volatile sectors like technology [1][2]. Company Overview - Waste Management, founded in 1968, is North America's largest provider of public sanitation services, managing household, commercial, and industrial waste, with over 250 active landfills and advanced recycling facilities [4]. - The company has a market capitalization of $82 billion and a current stock price of $203.94, with a gross margin of 28.92% and a dividend yield of 1.63% [3][14]. Financial Performance - In the third quarter, Waste Management's revenue increased by 15% year-over-year to $6.4 billion, although operating income fell by 12% to $989 million due to noncash outflows and asset impairment [5][6]. - The company has a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 32, which is higher than the S&P 500 average of 26, indicating that shares are somewhat expensive for a mature industrial company [13]. Market Potential - The total addressable market for Waste Management is vast, as nearly every business and household in North America generates waste, with a growing number of potential clients [8]. - The company is exploring growth opportunities in green energy, particularly through landfill gas-to-energy initiatives, which convert methane from landfills into renewable natural gas [9][10]. Strategic Growth Initiatives - Waste Management is expanding through acquisitions, such as the $7.2 billion purchase of Stericycle, a medical waste service provider, which enhances its footprint in the healthcare waste market [11]. - The company's focus on synergistic opportunities, including medical waste and green energy production, positions it well for future growth [12].