Ralph Lauren Corp vs Waste Management, Inc. — how do they compare? Ralph Lauren Corp trades at $400.36 (market cap $23.70B), while Waste Management, Inc. trades at $224.01 (market cap $90.68B). The key difference: Waste Management, Inc. is far larger — about 3.8× Ralph Lauren Corp's market cap, and Waste Management, Inc. pays the higher dividend (1.56%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| RL | WM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $23.70B | $90.68B |
Sector | Consumer Cyclical | Industrials |
52-Week High | $414.25 | $246.51 |
52-Week Low | $285.35 | $196.77 |
Enterprise Value | $24.76B | $113.47B |
Dividend Yield | 0.94% | 1.56% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Ralph Lauren (RL) trades at $406.89, up 2.87% today, reflecting strong momentum after consecutive earnings beats. The stock shows bullish technical signals with support near $396 and resistance at $413. Fundamentals are robust, with Q2 2026 EPS of $4.59 beating estimates, revenue growth to $7.08B in 2025, and high profitability margins. Analyst sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 66% recommending Buy and a consensus price target of $456.50.
The outlook remains favorable due to brand strength and margin expansion, but risks include economic sensitivity and high valuation multiples. Near-term catalysts hinge on Q3 2026 earnings due soon. The stock's proximity to its 52-week high suggests cautious entry points may be optimal.
WM trades at $226.6, down 0.47% over 24 hours, with a bullish technical signal and support near $226. The stock shows strong profitability with a 40.6% gross margin and 11.12% net margin, though its P/E of 59.74 is elevated. Recent Q2 2026 earnings beat expectations at $2.02 per share, and analyst consensus is a buy with a $263.43 price target. Cash flow from operations grew to $6.04B in 2025, but net cash flow was negative $190M due to investments.
Outlook is positive with revenue growth and margin stability, but risks include high valuation and debt levels. The stock offers upside to the consensus target, supported by institutional confidence and consistent earnings beats, though investors should monitor volume trends and interest rate impacts on borrowing costs.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
Founded by designer Ralph Lauren in 1967, Ralph Lauren Corp. designs, markets, and distributes lifestyle products in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its products include apparel, footwear, eyewear, jewelry, leather goods, home products, and fragrances. The company's brands include Ralph Lauren Collection, Polo Ralph Lauren, Lauren Ralph Lauren, and Double RL. Distribution channels for Ralph Lauren include wholesale (including department stores and specialty stores), retail (including company-owned retail stores and e-commerce), and licensing.
Read more on RL →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 →