Group 1: Overview of Key Companies - The Dow Jones Industrial Average includes industry-leading companies like Apple, Microsoft, Visa, and American Express, making them compelling options for long-term investment [1] - Apple has seen a decline of 22% year-to-date, while Microsoft has increased by nearly 7% [3] - Microsoft is investing heavily in AI and cloud computing, maintaining high operating margins and a strong balance sheet, which positions it close to an all-time high [5] Group 2: Apple Analysis - Apple is vulnerable to tariffs due to its reliance on China for product assembly, particularly with a 25% tariff on iPhones not made in the U.S. [6][7] - Despite tariff risks, Apple has upcoming AI-enhanced products that may attract consumer interest [8] - Apple's current valuation is reasonable with a P/E ratio of 30.4 and a forward P/E of 27.2, compared to a five-year median P/E of 29.3 [9] Group 3: Visa and American Express Comparison - Visa operates as a pure-play payment processor with a simpler, lower-risk business model, collecting fees based on transaction volume [11] - Visa converts around two-thirds of every dollar in sales into operating income, making it a highly profitable, capital-light business [12] - American Express, while taking on more risk, has a strong risk management track record and attracts affluent customers with high annual fees and premium perks [13] - American Express spends more on card member rewards, incentivizing usage and expanding its network [14] Group 4: Investment Considerations - Both Visa and American Express support consistent stock buybacks and growing dividends, making them solid long-term investment options [15] - Apple, Microsoft, Visa, and American Express are recommended for investors seeking quality growth stocks at reasonable valuations, despite their lower dividend yields due to rapid stock price growth [16][17]
4 Dividend-Paying Dow Jones Growth Stocks to Buy in June and Hold for Decades