3 No-Brainer Stocks to Buy and Hold Long-Term

Group 1: Cintas Corporation - Cintas will complete a 4:1 stock split in September, which is expected to lead to a significant increase in stock price, supported by strong fundamentals [2] - The company operates in a fragmented market, providing uniform rental and ancillary services, with organic growth projected at a mid-single-digit pace for 2024 [3] - Cintas reported a 22% operating margin, positive cash flow, and a nearly 3X increase in cash, alongside increased assets and decreased debt [3][4] - The company has a dividend yield of 0.78% and a payout ratio under 40%, allowing for distribution increases driven by earnings growth forecasted between 7.5% and over 10% [4] - Cintas has a strong balance sheet with total long-term liabilities less than 1X equity, positioning it well for continued investment in growth [4] Group 2: Casey's General Stores - Casey's General Stores operates a growing chain of gas stations and convenience stores, producing solid cash flows and improving margins [5] - The company reported a 5.6% increase in inside sales and 1% growth in sold fuel gallons, with guidance for continued organic and store count growth in F2025 [5][6] - Casey's shares have increased by 35% in 2024 and over 400% in the last decade, reflecting strong performance [5] Group 3: Shopify - Shopify is positioned as a necessary eCommerce platform for small businesses and larger firms, with strong double-digit growth and improved margins expected in 2024 [9][10] - The company has significantly improved free cash flow, with a low leverage ratio of about 0.15X equity and 0.2X assets, allowing for continued growth and reinvestment [10] - Shopify's cash flow is expected to remain strong, supporting debt reduction and balance sheet improvement, setting the stage for future dividends and share repurchases [10]