Clean Harbors (CLH) | News Based Sentiment Analysis

• On September 5, 2025, Clean Harbors reported Q2 2025 earnings of $2.36 per share, slightly below the expected $2.38, and revenue of $1.55 billion, falling short of the $1.59 billion forecast. Despite this, the company achieved a record Q2 adjusted EBITDA of $336.2 million, a 6% year-over-year increase, and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 21.7%, demonstrating underlying operational strength.
• Following the Q2 2025 earnings report on September 5th, BMO Capital raised its price target to $268 from $264, maintaining an "Outperform" rating, citing commendable performance despite tariff-related uncertainty and sluggish industrial activity. This positive adjustment reflects confidence in the company's ability to navigate challenging economic conditions.
• Truist Securities reaffirmed a "Buy" rating on Clean Harbors on September 11, 2025, maintaining a $250.00 price target and expressing increased optimism regarding hazardous waste pricing. InvestingPro data indicated a "GOOD" financial health rating, and seven analysts recently revised earnings expectations upward, signaling growing confidence in the company's future profitability.
• Institutional investors continue to demonstrate strong confidence in Clean Harbors, with 90.43% of the stock owned by these investors as of September 12, 2025. United Services Automobile Association acquired 3,339 shares valued at approximately $658,000, and UniSuper Management Pty Ltd purchased 9,045 shares valued at approximately $1.783 million in the first quarter of the year, indicating continued accumulation.
• Despite the generally positive outlook, some insider selling occurred in September. Director Andrea Robertson sold 836 shares totaling $195,323.04, decreasing her ownership by 7.80%, and EVP Brian P. Weber sold 3,035 shares for $689,460.95 on June 13th, which could raise some investor concerns.
• Analysts at Zacks Research boosted their Q3 2025 EPS estimates to $2.37 per share on August 27, 2025, up from $2.30, and the consensus estimate for the full year is $7.89 per share. This upward revision suggests growing optimism about the company's near-term performance.
• Clean Harbors management is focused on internal improvements to boost margins in its Industrial Services segment, as reported by Truist Securities on September 11, 2025. They also expressed sustained optimism regarding the economic outlook, driven by reshoring and industrial investments in the U.S., anticipating no material changes that would impede profitable growth.

The Investment Story: September was a month of largely positive developments for Clean Harbors, with analysts raising price targets and earnings estimates following a solid Q2 performance, despite slightly missing revenue and EPS expectations. Continued institutional investment signals strong confidence, though some insider selling warrants monitoring.

What It Means for Investors: The positive analyst sentiment and institutional support suggest continued upside potential, while the focus on improving Industrial Services margins and the optimistic outlook on reshoring indicate a commitment to long-term growth. Investors should monitor the Q4 earnings report on October 29, 2025, and track the impact of these initiatives.

Looking Ahead: Investors should pay close attention to the Q4 2025 earnings report on October 29th, particularly management's commentary on the impact of commodity prices and the integration of past acquisitions. Monitoring the trend of insider selling will also be important.

The Bottom Line: Clean Harbors remains a compelling investment opportunity, supported by strong operational performance, positive analyst coverage, and significant institutional ownership. While short-term volatility is possible, the company's strategic focus and favorable industry trends position it for continued success.