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AXP, KO & MCO: Enduring Stocks in a Changing Market

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 16:10 GMT by The Motley Fool

The Enduring Appeal of AXP, KO & MCO

American Express (AXP), despite the rise of fintech and "buy now, pay later" services, maintains its strength. The company has successfully evolved, focusing on premium rewards programs and increasingly catering to the experiences economy. In 2025, AXP saw a 12% increase in travel and entertainment spending among its cardholders, demonstrating continued brand loyalty and adaptability. The critical element isn't simply transactions, but the data AXP collects and leverages - providing valuable insights into consumer spending habits.

Coca-Cola (KO) remains a cornerstone of stable returns. While health consciousness has impacted sugary drink consumption, Coca-Cola has diversified its portfolio with healthier options, bottled water, and expansion into adjacent beverage categories like energy drinks. Crucially, its distribution network remains unparalleled, reaching even the most remote corners of the globe. The company's ability to adapt packaging and marketing to local preferences is a major driver of sustained growth in emerging markets. The dividend yield remains attractive to income-focused investors.

Moody's (MCO) continues to benefit from its oligopolistic position in the credit rating industry. While facing increased scrutiny regarding its role in the 2024 sovereign debt crisis in several South American nations, the demand for independent credit assessments remains high. Moody's has expanded its analytics and risk management services, leveraging data to provide more comprehensive assessments than simple ratings. The increasing complexity of financial instruments and the need for robust risk analysis ensure continued demand for Moody's expertise.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: The Evolution of Buffett's Portfolio

While AXP, KO, and MCO represent classic Buffett picks, his portfolio has subtly evolved. In recent years, Berkshire Hathaway has increased its holdings in technology companies, specifically those with demonstrable economic moats. This indicates a recognition that moats aren't limited to traditional industries. Companies like Apple, though not always directly comparable to Buffett's earlier picks, exhibit strong brand loyalty, pricing power, and a massive ecosystem that's difficult for competitors to replicate.

Furthermore, Berkshire's increasing investment in renewable energy companies signifies a shift towards sustainability - not necessarily an ideological change, but a pragmatic assessment of long-term growth potential and regulatory tailwinds. This diversification suggests Buffett isn't solely focused on established consumer staples, but is also looking towards industries poised for significant growth.

Applying Buffett's Principles in 2026

For investors seeking to emulate Buffett's success, several principles remain paramount. Firstly, prioritize companies with sustainable competitive advantages. This isn't just about brand recognition; it's about barriers to entry, network effects, and cost advantages. Secondly, focus on businesses that are easy to understand. Avoid complex financial engineering or industries you don't fully grasp. Finally, embrace a long-term perspective. Buffett's success isn't built on short-term speculation; it's based on patiently holding high-quality companies for decades.

In 2026, with geopolitical uncertainty and economic volatility remaining high, these principles are more crucial than ever. Identifying companies with strong fundamentals and a durable competitive advantage will be key to navigating the challenges ahead.