"Assessing 3M Co.'s Stock Performance Amid Market Fluctuations"

3M stock has plummeted 65% since 2018, raising questions about its potential as a buy-and-hold opportunity. The company's diversified business model and high-margin products make it an attractive long-term investment, but declining research and development spending and mounting debt levels pose challenges. 3M faces significant legal liabilities, including multi-billion dollar settlements, which may impact its financial position and ability to invest in innovation. While the stock still holds value, potential investors should consider the long-term horizon and management's ability to address these issues.