3M Stock Surges 99.09% in Trading Volume to $745 Million Amid Major PFAS Settlement

On May 12, 2025, 3M (MMM) saw a significant increase in trading volume, with a turnover of $745 million, marking a 99.09% rise from the previous day. The stock price surged by 5.42%, extending its winning streak to four consecutive days, with a cumulative gain of 8.92% over the past four days.

3M has reached a significant settlement with the state of New Jersey, resolving PFAS-related claims. The agreement, subject to court approval, includes a pre-tax present value commitment of approximately $210 million to address legacy issues at the Chambers Works facility. This settlement is part of 3M's broader strategy to discontinue all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025, a commitment made in 2022 following its voluntary exit from PFOA and PFOS manufacturing in 2000.

Financially, 3M will take a pre-tax charge of approximately $285 million in the second quarter of 2025, reflecting the settlement's impact. The company expects to make payments over a period of 25 years, with $210 million allocated to the Chambers Works facility and the remaining $75 million to resolve current and future PFAS-related claims. This settlement is seen as a step toward reducing risk and uncertainty surrounding legacy issues, allowing 3M to focus more on its strategic priorities.

3M has also reached a Judicial Consent Order with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and other plaintiffs regarding PFAS contamination. This order is part of the company's ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns and move forward with its strategic goals. The settlement is not an admission of liability and stems from a 2019 lawsuit involving multiple chemical makers, including DuPont and Chemours.