Today, 3M (MMM -0.64%) reported earnings of $1.65 per share, up about 9% year over year as a result of its reduced share count, higher operating margins, and reduced SG&A expenses. The company emphasizes that even with the difficult economy, it will continue to invest overseas for big future growth. Fool.com analyst Blake Bos encourages investors to look into "Drip Plans" with companies such as 3M, General Electric (GE 0.99%), Du Pont (DD), and Tyco (TYC), because of their large dividend payouts.