Bill Gates has built much of his fortune through technology, but one of his major investments is in a business that many people rarely think about: waste management. According to a report by International Business Times, Bill Gates has increased his stake in Republic Services, one of the largest waste collection and recycling companies in the US. The report cites regulatory filings which show that his investment firm Cascade Investment bought another 3.06 million shares between August 28 and September 11. Gates now owns about 117.05 million shares, or more than 38% of the company’s outstanding common stock. Based on Republic Services’ latest dividend, that stake could generate about $313.7 million a year in dividend income if the payout and shareholding remain unchanged.
Bill Gates has built a large stake in Republic Services
Gates has been increasing his holding in Republic Services through Cascade Investment, his private investment company. The latest purchases added 3.06 million shares to his position. His total holding now stands at more than 117 million shares.Republic Services recently raised its quarterly dividend to $0.67 per share. Based on Gates’ current holding, the upcoming dividend payment could give him about $78.43 million. If the quarterly payment stays at that level for four quarters, it would amount to about $313.7 million a year.Notably, the figure is an estimate based on the current dividend and Gates’ reported shareholding. It does not mean the amount is guaranteed every year.
Why waste management can be a steady business
Republic Services handles waste collection, transfer, disposal and recycling across the US. The company relies heavily on long-term contracts with local governments. Some of these contracts include price adjustments linked to inflation measures such as the Consumer Price Index.For commercial customers, Republic Services can also adjust prices based on market conditions. The company has also expanded beyond traditional waste collection. Its businesses include renewable natural gas and environmental services, including operations connected to its US Ecology acquisition.
