Toxic Waste A slang term referring to securities that are unattractive due to certain underlying provisions or risks making them generally illiquid with poor pricing schemes and transparency. Investopedia Says: Mainly used in reference to CMOs, toxic waste represents the small portion of these products that are byproducts created as a result of providing the majority of CMOs with minimal risk. In effect, this small portion of byproducts is used as outlets for transferring a substantial portion of the underlying risks involved in making the obligations and then marketed to investors. Related Terms: Collateralized Mortgage Obligation - CMO Mortgage Backed Securities Pass-Through Security Structured Finance Tranches |