Forbes·2025-12-05 14:26Core Insights - 3M stock has increased by 33% this year due to strategic and operational improvements, including cost reductions and a focus on higher-margin products, leading to raised guidance for 2025 adjusted EPS [2] - Honeywell stock has decreased by 9% despite strong financial results, primarily due to investor concerns about growth and the anticipated company split not boosting growth [3][4] - Despite 3M's stock outperformance, Honeywell is considered a more attractive investment due to superior revenue growth, improved profitability, and lower valuation compared to 3M [5] Financial Performance - 3M has consistently exceeded analyst expectations for earnings and revenue, contributing to its stock price increase and raised guidance [2] - Honeywell's quarterly revenue growth was 7.0%, compared to 3.5% for 3M, and its last 12 months revenue growth was 7.5%, ahead of 3M's 1.1% [10] - Honeywell's 3-year average margin stands at 19.5%, significantly higher than 3M's 1.1% [10] Market Dynamics - Honeywell's stock has underperformed compared to sector performance and peers, largely due to mixed earnings announcements and margin pressures from operational cost increases [4] - The complexity introduced by Honeywell's strategy to split into three separate companies has created uncertainty, negatively impacting its stock performance [4] Investment Considerations - The High Quality Portfolio is suggested as an alternative for investors seeking growth with less volatility, having outperformed its benchmark with returns exceeding 105% since inception [6] - A multi-asset portfolio approach is recommended to mitigate volatility and ensure consistent investment returns [11][12]