WMNEUTRAL

WM Debt-to-Equity Ratio Analysis

2.35x

Updated 81h ago·SEC filings & market data

Key Takeaway

The debt-to-equity ratio compares a company’s total liabilities to its shareholder equity, so WM’s 2.35x means it carries $2.35 of debt for every $1 of equity.

Sector Performance

89th percentile

2.35x

Sector Median

0.74x

Sector Avg

2.51x

Prior Period

2.28x(Jul 2026)

↓ Declining

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Deep Analysis

The debt-to-equity ratio compares a company’s total liabilities to its shareholder equity, so WM’s 2.35x means it carries $2.35 of debt for every $1 of equity.

Sector peers have a median of 0.73x, and WM sits in the 89th percentile, indicating heavier leverage than most. The year-over-year change is N/A, but quarter-over-quarter the ratio rose 3.1% from 2.28x to 2.35x, with the last-8-quarter trend direction also N/A. A high and rising leverage level increases financial risk, particularly if earnings or cash flow deteriorate, while potentially boosting returns if borrowed capital is used productively. This elevated debt load and upward move contradict the overall NEUTRAL verdict by pointing to added downside risk, though the metric alone does not justify a bearish call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Debt-to-Equity Ratio tell investors about WM?

Shows how much a company is financing its operations through debt vs shareholder funds. High D/E can amplify returns — and losses.

How is the Debt-to-Equity Ratio calculated?

Debt-to-Equity Ratio is calculated as: Total Debt / Shareholders' Equity.

Who are WM's closest peers by Debt-to-Equity Ratio?

The closest peers by Debt-to-Equity Ratio include: TAP (0.76x), PCAR (0.72x), O (0.78x), PRU (0.78x), KIM (0.85x).

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Learn More About Debt-to-Equity Ratio

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Debt/Equity Ratio: How Much Debt Is Too Much?

The debt to equity ratio explained: why context, interest coverage, and sector norms matter far more than the raw number when assessing debt risk.

The Formula

Total Debt / Shareholders' Equity

Why It Matters

Shows how much a company is financing its operations through debt vs shareholder funds. High D/E can amplify returns — and losses.