3 No-Brainer Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Next Decade

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. equity market is facing challenges in 2025 due to economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and a trade war with China, but high-quality companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Oracle are well-positioned for long-term growth [1][2][3]. Microsoft - Microsoft has transitioned from a software license model to a subscription-based model, resulting in predictable and high-margin revenue streams [4][5]. - The company's diversified business segments, including Microsoft 365, Azure, and LinkedIn, contribute to steady cash flow and high customer retention [5]. - Microsoft's aggressive AI strategy, particularly its partnership with OpenAI, enhances enterprise adoption of its products [6]. - Wall Street projects Microsoft's revenue and earnings to grow annually by 11.9% and 12.3%, respectively, with a forward P/E ratio of 29.5x, lower than its five-year average of 33x [7][8]. Amazon - Amazon's ecosystem extends beyond e-commerce to include AWS, digital advertising, and AI initiatives, maintaining its long-term growth despite trade war disruptions [9]. - AWS, which accounted for 17% of revenue in 2024, contributed over 58% of operating income, with an annualized revenue run rate of $115 billion [10]. - Amazon invested$8 billion in AI and is developing over 1,000 generative AI applications, enhancing productivity and reducing costs [11]. - The company expanded same-day delivery sites by 60% year over year in 2024, improving customer convenience [12]. - Amazon's share price has decreased by nearly 29% from its all-time high, trading at a forward P/E of about 31.3x, significantly lower than its five-year average of 55.4x, presenting a buying opportunity [13][14]. Oracle - Oracle's stock has declined nearly 35% from its 52-week high, making it an attractive option for long-term investors due to its role in AI infrastructure and cloud services [15]. - The company's Remaining Performance Obligations (RPO) increased by 62% year over year to $130 billion, indicating strong future revenue potential [16]. - Oracle's cloud infrastructure is growing at 51% year over year, and it is building a significant AI training infrastructure with Nvidia's chips [17]. - Management anticipates 15% revenue growth in fiscal 2026 and 20% in 2027, along with a 25% increase in quarterly dividends [18]. - Oracle trades at 19.1 times forward earnings, below its five-year average of 32.6x, suggesting a favorable valuation for investors [19].