Waste Management Q4 2022 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
Waste Management (WM) reported strong financial growth in 2022, with the collection and disposal business exceeding expectations and delivering double-digit adjusted operating EBITDA growth in both the fourth quarter and for the full year. The company is investing in automation technology and sustainability businesses to drive future performance.
Collection and disposal business exceeded expectations, driving growth.
Adjusted operating EBITDA grew by 8.8% in Q4 and over 9.5% for the full year.
Strategic priorities advanced through employee engagement, technology improvements, and sustainability investments.
Expects 2023 performance to be driven by a strong year in the collection and disposal business.
Waste Management
Waste Management
Forward Guidance
Waste Management expects operational efficiencies and management of discretionary costs, combined with revenue growth, to deliver 40-80 basis points of adjusted operating EBITDA margin expansion in 2023. Adjusted operating EBITDA growth of 7% at the midpoint of guidance.
Positive Outlook
- Operational efficiencies.
- Management of discretionary costs.
- Revenue growth.
- Strong foundation for continued growth in 2023.
- Significant cash from operations.
Challenges Ahead
- Year-over-year decline of more than 25% in recycled commodity prices.
- Average natural gas price decline of nearly 40%.
- Average electricity price decline of about about 5%.
- High inflation.
- Tight labor market.