Phoenix-based Republic Services, Inc. (RSG) is a leader in environmental services, steering waste management across the U.S. and Canada with a $73 billion market capitalization. Founded in 1996, it handles everything from waste collection and recycling to energy solutions, serving homes, businesses, and industries alike. With innovative landfill services, organics processing, and recycled material sales, Republic turns trash into opportunity, making sustainability not just a goal but a driving force behind its community impact.

“Large-cap stocks” are those companies valued at north of $10 billion, and Republic Services fits that mold with ease. It crossed that threshold by hauling in dominance across America’s waste business. As the nation’s second-largest trash titan, Republic Services built scale, locked in landfills, and rolled out AI-driven efficiency. That mix of muscle and smarts turned garbage into gold, pushing its market cap well past the line and cementing its heavyweight status.

Republic Services recently touched its 52-week high of $258.75 on June 3 and is currently trading 9.6% below that peak – signaling even giants stumble. RSG stock has dipped 8.1% over the past three months, lagging the Dow Jones Industrials Average's ($DOWI) 7.9% rise over the same time frame.

However, over the longer term, RSG’s performance looks much more attractive. The stock rose 12.8% over the past 52 weeks, outperforming DOWI’s 10.8% returns over the past year. In fact, RSG rose 16.3% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis, surpassing the 7.1% gains of DOWI in 2025. 

Republic Services is stuck in a tricky spot. Over the past year, it cruised above its 200-day moving average, flashing long-term strength. But since mid-June, the RSG has slipped under its 50-day line, hinting at short-term pressure. Now hovering just above the 200-day, RSG’s next move will matter – hold the green line and bulls regain control, crack below it and bears may finally tip the scales.

Republic Services has quietly turned trash into treasure. Over the past year, its stock has been grinding higher, riding a wave of growing demand for waste management as urbanization accelerates and sustainability rules tighten. Strategic bets on advanced recycling tech and renewable energy have boosted its growth runway, while a 20-year streak of dividend hikes and consistent earnings beats have cemented its reputation as a reliable wealth builder.

In a market riddled with uncertainty, RSG has stood out as a safe, steady hand. Its defensive business model attracts investors hunting for stability, while regulatory shifts toward greener practices and an expansion into underserved markets have given it an extra tailwind. 

That said, the ride has not been perfectly smooth. After reporting mixed Q2 earnings results on July 29, the stock slipped 5.8%. Revenue climbed 4.6% year over year (YoY) to $4.2 billion, fueled by 3.1% organic growth and 1.5% from acquisitions, but it came up short of Street estimates by 75 basis points. Still, adjusted EPS jumped 9.9% to $1.77, topping expectations and underscoring the company’s operational efficiency.

Compared to its closest rival, Waste Management, Inc. (WM), RSG continues to shine. WM has gained 12.2% in 2025 and delivered 8.2% returns over the past 52 weeks, but RSG’s ability to scale, price smartly, and leverage technology has kept it ahead of the curve.

Despite RSG’s recent dip, analysts remain upbeat. Among the 23 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a “Moderate Buy.” The mean price target of $268.81 represents a 14.9% premium to current price levels – signaling the Street expects Republic Services to regain its stride and potentially chart fresh highs in the coming months.