Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Waste Management, Inc. or Axon Enterprise, Inc.

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Companies

In the competitive landscape of corporate America, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Waste Management, Inc. and Axon Enterprise, Inc. offer a fascinating comparison in this regard. Over the past decade, Waste Management has consistently maintained higher SG&A expenses, peaking at nearly $1.93 billion in 2022. In contrast, Axon Enterprise's SG&A costs have grown more dynamically, increasing by over 800% from 2014 to 2023.

A Decade of Change

From 2014 to 2023, Axon Enterprise's SG&A expenses surged, reflecting its aggressive growth strategy. Meanwhile, Waste Management's expenses remained relatively stable, indicating a focus on operational efficiency. This divergence highlights different strategic priorities: Axon’s investment in expansion versus Waste Management’s emphasis on cost control.

The Bottom Line

Understanding these trends offers valuable insights into how companies balance growth and efficiency, a critical consideration for investors and stakeholders alike.