The Ultimate Essential Stock to Buy With $300 Right Now

If you don’t have too much cash on hand, don’t worry! Here’s a stock to get you started.

| More on:

When you only have $300 to invest, every dollar needs to count. It’s not about chasing the next big thing or trying to time the market perfectly. It’s about choosing a Canadian stock with staying power, stable growth, and long-term potential. That’s where Waste Connections (TSX:WCN) comes in. It’s not a flashy tech company or a trendy name in headlines. But it might just be the smartest place to put your money right now.

data analyze research

Image source: Getty Images

About Waste Connections

Waste Connections is one of the largest solid waste services companies in North America. It operates in mostly exclusive and secondary markets across the United States and Canada. This isn’t a company that thrives on hype. It grows by handling something we all create: waste. And whether the economy is booming or slowing down, garbage still needs to be collected. That’s what makes it so reliable.

At a current share price around $256, your $300 can grab you just one share. And once you’re in, you’re invested in a business that delivers recurring revenue, steady cash flow, and a long history of disciplined growth.

Recent performance

In its most recent quarterly results for the period ending Mar. 31, 2025, Waste Connections reported revenue of $3.21 billion, up from $2.05 billion the year before. Net income was $346 million, reversing a prior loss from the same period in 2024. That’s a sign the Canadian stock is both growing and recovering from inflationary pressures and acquisition costs that affected margins last year.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) for the quarter came in at $823.1 million, representing a margin of about 25.6%. That’s strong for a service-based business. And it shows Waste Connections is managing its costs well while scaling up operations. The Canadian stock operates in an industry that naturally supports pricing power, especially in exclusive contracts. That means its customers can’t just switch to another provider because one doesn’t usually exist.

Earn while you wait

The Canadian stock also pays a dividend of $1.75 per share, with a yield of 0.68% at writing. While that’s not huge, it’s consistent and growing. Waste Connections has increased its dividend each year since initiating one in 2010. That kind of track record makes it a great stock for long-term reinvestment, especially for those who like to build wealth slowly but steadily.

Its payout ratio sits at around 49%, meaning the Canadian stock still has plenty of room to grow the dividend while reinvesting in operations. In fact, Waste Connections continues to make strategic acquisitions in new regions while expanding services in its existing markets. It also raised US$500 million in senior notes this year to support future expansion while keeping its balance sheet in good shape.

Bottom line

If you’re someone just getting started, $300 might not seem like much. But put it into a business like Waste Connections, and you’re building a base. That small investment could grow over time, not just through share price appreciation but through the reinvestment of dividends. And because the Canadian stock operates in such a steady and needed industry, it’s less likely to swing wildly with market trends.

In short, Waste Connections is the kind of stock that rewards patience. It’s a great way to get into the market without taking on too much risk. And with $300, you can begin building an investment that keeps working for you every day, quietly, consistently, and without the drama. That’s why it might just be the ultimate stock to buy right now.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Dividend Stocks

man in bowtie poses with abacus
Dividend Stocks

How Much Canadians Typically Have in a TFSA by Age 55

The average 55-to-59-year-old's TFSA balance is a useful benchmark, but Loblaw shows how investing well can still move the needle.

Read more »

stocks climbing green bull market
Dividend Stocks

The Canadian Dividend Stock I’d Trust When Markets Get Choppy

Intact Financial (TSX:IFC) stock is the TSX dividend fortress that just keeps delivering

Read more »

dividends can compound over time
Dividend Stocks

3 Ultra-High-Yield Dividend Stocks I’m Still Buying

These three ultra-high yields look tempting, but each one pays you in a very different (and with a very different…

Read more »

Aerial view of a wind farm
Dividend Stocks

Maximum TFSA Impact: 2 TSX Stocks to Help Multiply Your Wealth

Want to get more out of your TFSA? These two TSX stocks could help you grow wealth steadily over time.

Read more »

Canada day banner background design of flag
Dividend Stocks

The Very Best Canadian Stocks to Hold Forever in a TFSA

The best Canadian stocks to hold forever in a TFSA, and why CNR, BCE, and GRT.UN offer long‑term stability, income,…

Read more »

House models and one with REIT real estate investment trust.
Dividend Stocks

It’s Time to Buy: 1 Oversold TSX Stock Poised for a Comeback

Here's why this oversold TSX stock, offering a dividend yield above 4%, might just be the best long-term investment you…

Read more »

Concept of rent, search, purchase real estate, REIT
Dividend Stocks

This 10.4% Dividend Stock Pays Cash Every Single Month

Timbercreek’s 10%+ monthly yield is being supported by a growing mortgage book, even as it cleans up older problem assets.

Read more »

middle-aged couple work together on laptop
Dividend Stocks

How to Make Money in a TFSA With Dividend Stocks

Dividend stocks can deliver income as well as capital gains for patient TFSA investors.

Read more »