3M Company (MMM)

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 4,822,000 -8,744,000 6,851,000 7,694,000 7,315,000
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 11,125,000 13,088,000 14,001,000 16,056,000 17,989,000
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 3,842,000 4,807,000 14,722,000 15,046,000 12,867,000
Return on total capital 32.22% -48.86% 23.85% 24.74% 23.71%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $4,822,000K ÷ ($11,125,000K + $3,842,000K)
= 32.22%

Analyzing 3M Company's return on total capital from December 31, 2020, to December 31, 2024, reveals fluctuations in performance. The return on total capital increased steadily from 23.71% in 2020 to 24.74% in 2021, indicating improved efficiency in utilizing capital for generating profits. In 2022, the return on total capital slightly decreased to 23.85%, still indicating a relatively strong performance.

However, a significant decline was observed in 2023, with the return on total capital plummeting to -48.86%. This negative return suggests that the company may have incurred losses greater than the capital invested during that period, possibly due to operational challenges or write-downs.

The performance bounced back impressively in 2024, with a notable increase in the return on total capital to 32.22%. This significant improvement indicates a robust recovery and effectiveness in utilizing the capital to generate profits efficiently.

Overall, the analysis of 3M Company's return on total capital demonstrates variability in performance over the years, showcasing both strengths and challenges in capital utilization and profitability.