This Stock Is Up 55,000% Since Its IPO: Here's 1 Reason It Could Still Be a Smart Buy

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the potential investment opportunity in O'Reilly Automotive, driven by favorable market trends and the company's strong financial performance, despite concerns over its current valuation [2][10]. Group 1: Market Trends - The average age of vehicles on the road in the U.S. has reached 12.8 years, increasing for eight consecutive years, which is expected to benefit O'Reilly Automotive as older vehicles require more maintenance [5]. - The macroeconomic environment, characterized by high interest rates on auto loans and rising material and labor costs, makes purchasing new vehicles less affordable, leading consumers to invest in repairs for their existing cars [8]. Group 2: Company Performance - O'Reilly Automotive reported a same-store sales increase of 2.9% in 2024, marking its 32nd consecutive year of growth, showcasing its resilience in various economic conditions [9]. - The company has effectively utilized its free cash flow for stock buybacks, reducing its outstanding share count by 24% over the past five years, which may enhance shareholder value [10]. Group 3: Valuation Concerns - Despite the positive growth and demand, O'Reilly's current price-to-earnings ratio stands at 32.8, which is 36% higher than its trailing 10-year average, raising concerns about its valuation [11].