Packaging Corporation of America vs Waste Management, Inc. — how do they compare? Packaging Corporation of America trades at $228 (market cap $20.67B), while Waste Management, Inc. trades at $217.2 (market cap $87.05B). The key difference: Waste Management, Inc. is far larger — about 4.2× Packaging Corporation of America's market cap, and Packaging Corporation of America pays the higher dividend (2.59%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| PKG | WM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $20.67B | $87.05B |
Sector | Technology | Industrials |
52-Week High | $257.43 | $246.51 |
52-Week Low | $191.68 | $196.77 |
Enterprise Value | $24.48B | $109.85B |
Dividend Yield | 2.59% | 1.74% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) trades at $231.99, down 2.22% with bearish technical signals despite recent earnings beats. The stock shows mixed fundamentals with a P/E of 30.13 above industry averages, while profitability metrics indicate solid ROE of 14.79% amid margin pressures. Recent news highlights dividend declarations and CEO participation in industry conferences, though cash flow trends show negative net flows driven by significant capital investments.
PKG presents a cautious outlook with analyst consensus leaning hold (57.69%) despite a $272.83 price target suggesting 17.6% upside. Investment appeal hinges on execution amid cost headwinds, while risks include margin compression and competitive pressures. The technical setup near support at $230 requires monitoring for potential breakdown or reversal signals.
WM trades at $217.78, down 0.55% on the day, with a bearish technical signal from moving averages. The company reported mixed Q2 2026 earnings, beating EPS estimates but missing Q4 2025. Revenue grew to $25.20B in 2025, with strong profitability margins. Analysts maintain a buy consensus with a $263.43 price target, though technical indicators show near-term pressure.
The outlook is supported by steady waste-service demand and sustainability investments, but high debt levels and valuation concerns pose risks. CEO transition adds uncertainty, while institutional buying signals confidence. Upside exists if execution aligns with analyst targets, but investors should weigh premium valuation against growth sustainability.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Packaging Corporation of America is a leading producer of containerboard and corrugated packaging products in North America. The company also produces white papers, which include printing and writing papers. PKG operates as an integrated manufacturer, with a strong focus on high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions for e-commerce, food and beverage, and other industrial and consumer markets.
Read more on PKG →Waste Management ranks as the largest integrated provider of traditional solid waste services in the United States, operating approximately 260 active landfills and about 340 transfer stations. The company serves residential, commercial, and industrial end markets and is also a leading recycler in North America.
Read more on WM →