Core Viewpoint - O'Reilly Automotive has demonstrated remarkable stock performance, with shares increasing by 5,390% over the past 20 years, indicating strong potential for long-term wealth generation for investors [1]. Company Performance - O'Reilly Automotive has achieved consistent same-store sales growth for 33 consecutive years, reflecting a strong demand for aftermarket auto parts and supplies [4]. - The company has experienced a compound annual revenue growth rate of 8.8% from 2014 to 2024, with no down years, including a 14.3% revenue gain in 2020 during the pandemic [7]. Market Dynamics - The average age of passenger cars in the U.S. is increasing, leading to higher maintenance and repair needs, which benefits O'Reilly [5]. - The number of registered vehicles in the U.S. rose by 14.2% from 2013 to 2023, expanding O'Reilly's customer base [6]. Profitability and Financial Health - O'Reilly reported an operating margin of 20.2% in the second quarter, contributing to strong free cash flow generation [9]. - The company utilizes cash from operations for stock buybacks, which reduces the outstanding share count and enhances earnings per share growth [9]. Investment Considerations - While O'Reilly's sales growth is sustainable, it does not exhibit the monster growth typically sought by investors, and its price-to-earnings ratio of 37.3 is considered high historically, posing challenges for future returns [10].

Company Overview - O'Reilly Automotive has seen a remarkable stock performance, climbing 509% over the past decade and outperforming the S&P 500 index [3] - Since its IPO in April 1993, O'Reilly's stock has skyrocketed 56,350%, indicating strong business fundamentals and shareholder value [9] Stock Split Details - On March 13, O'Reilly's board approved a 15-for-1 stock split, which was implemented on June 10, reducing the share price from approximately $1,350 to $90 [6] - The stock split increased the number of outstanding shares by a factor of 15, making shares more accessible to investors [5][6] Business Model and Demand Stability - O'Reilly operates 6,416 stores, primarily selling aftermarket auto parts, which are in stable demand regardless of economic conditions [10] - The necessity of maintaining working automobiles supports consistent demand, as consumers tend to either drive more in good times or maintain existing vehicles during recessions [11] Financial Performance - O'Reilly generated $2 billion in free cash flow in 2024 and reported $455 million in Q1, with a history of using this cash for share buybacks [12] - The diluted outstanding share count has been reduced by 24% over the last five years, enhancing earnings per share [12] Valuation Considerations - O'Reilly's stock trades at a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.3, which is 38% higher than its trailing-10-year average, suggesting that the stock may be overvalued [13] - A recommendation is made for investors to consider waiting for a pullback before investing, although a dollar-cost averaging strategy could be viable for those bullish on the stock [13]