A Tale of Two Giants: SG&A Expenses of Waste Management, Inc. vs 3M Company

In the world of corporate finance, Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses are a crucial indicator of a company's operational efficiency. Over the past decade, 3M Company and Waste Management, Inc. have showcased contrasting trends in their SG&A expenses.

3M Company: A Rollercoaster Ride

From 2014 to 2023, 3M's SG&A expenses have seen a significant fluctuation. Starting at approximately $6.5 billion in 2014, they peaked dramatically in 2023, reaching over $21 billion, a staggering 230% increase. This surge reflects strategic investments and possibly increased operational costs.

Waste Management, Inc.: Steady as She Goes

In contrast, Waste Management, Inc. has maintained a more stable trajectory. Their SG&A expenses hovered around $1.5 billion to $1.9 billion, showing a modest 30% increase over the same period. This stability underscores their consistent operational strategy.

The data for 2024 is incomplete, leaving room for speculation on future trends.