Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 16,766,000 37,661,000 22,001,000 22,959,000 16,698,000
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 30,651,000 25,881,000 26,886,000 29,985,000 32,635,000
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 71,490,000 68,774,000 76,804,000 74,023,000 63,278,000
Return on total capital 16.41% 39.79% 21.22% 22.07% 17.41%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $16,766,000K ÷ ($30,651,000K + $71,490,000K)
= 16.41%

Johnson & Johnson's return on total capital has shown fluctuations over the years. It increased from 17.41% in December 2020 to 22.07% in December 2021, indicating improved efficiency in generating profits relative to the total capital employed. In December 2022, the return on total capital slightly declined to 21.22% but remained at a relatively high level.

The significant surge in the return on total capital to 39.79% in December 2023 suggests a substantial increase in profitability relative to the total invested capital, possibly due to strategic decisions or operational improvements. However, in December 2024, the return on total capital decreased to 16.41%, which may indicate challenges in maintaining the same level of profitability compared to the previous year.

Overall, Johnson & Johnson's return on total capital demonstrates the company's ability to generate returns on the total capital employed, although there have been fluctuations in performance over the years. It is essential for the company to continue monitoring and optimizing its capital utilization to ensure sustained profitability.