WM CEO Jim Fish: Investors should look at WM as a stock to buy and hold indefinitely

Financial Performance - Waste Management delivered a healthy top and bottom line beat, driven by strength in the core business [2] - Healthcare solutions EBITDA margins improved by 170 basis points [6] - The core business continues to drive gross margins [6] - The company raised its margin expectations due to strong performance in pricing and cost control [7] Business Strategy & Operations - Waste Management's stock is considered a "forever stock" due to consistent performance [3] - Acquisitions, such as Stir Cycle, have been a key factor in the company's success [4] - The company has smoothed out fluctuations in the recycling business through contract adjustments and diversification into areas like healthcare solutions [10] - Increasing regulatory requirements can work in Waste Management's favor due to its self-regulation practices [18] Market & Economic Outlook - The garbage business can provide insights into the economy [2] - The construction and demolition business is improving sequentially, indicating potential economic improvement [14] - The company sees signs of economic strengthening, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors [13] - Waste Management is well-positioned regarding declining landfill airspace availability, with advantageous locations in major MSAs [21]