Is Mastercard (MA) One of the Best Forever Stocks to Buy Right Now?

As an experienced investor, I've learned that the key to long-term success lies in identifying stocks that can weather market storms and deliver consistent returns. One such stock that has caught my eye is Mastercard (MA), the global leader in digital payments. With a market capitalization of over $460 billion and a strong track record of growth and innovation, Mastercard is poised to continue its upward trajectory. Let's dive into the reasons why MA could be one of the best forever stocks to buy right now.

1. Strong Financial Performance: Mastercard has consistently delivered impressive financial results, with revenue and earnings growth year after year. In 2024, the company's revenue reached $28.17 billion, an increase of 12.23% compared to the previous year. Earnings also grew by 15.00% to $12.87 billion. These strong financials indicate that Mastercard is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory.
2. Growing Dividends: Mastercard has a history of increasing its dividends, which is a positive sign for income-oriented investors. The company's annual dividend has grown by an average of 16% over the past five years, and its current yield of 0.6% is attractive compared to other blue-chip stocks. Additionally, Mastercard's payout ratio of 23% indicates that the company is committed to returning value to shareholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet.
3. Expanding Global Reach: Mastercard's extensive global network and partnerships enable it to tap into growth opportunities in emerging markets. The company's debit and credit card volumes have grown significantly in recent years, driven by increased adoption in regions such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This global expansion positions Mastercard to capitalize on the growing demand for digital payments.
4. Innovation and Technology: Mastercard is at the forefront of digital payment innovation, investing heavily in research and development to stay ahead of the competition. The company's focus on security, fraud prevention, and data analytics has enabled it to maintain its market leadership and drive growth. Mastercard's recent acquisitions, such as Nets and Vocalink, have further strengthened its technology and product offerings.
5. Strong Brand and Market Share: Mastercard's strong brand and market share in the global payments industry provide it with a competitive advantage. The company's extensive network of partners and merchants, combined with its strong relationships with financial institutions, enables it to maintain a significant influence in the market. Mastercard's market share in the U.S. credit card market remained strong at 26% in 2023, consolidating its position as a leading payment processor.
6. Resilience and Diversification: Mastercard's diverse revenue streams and global presence make it a resilient investment, capable of withstanding economic downturns and market fluctuations. The company's exposure to various industries, geographies, and payment methods reduces its reliance on any single segment, ensuring a more stable and predictable revenue stream.



In conclusion, Mastercard (MA) is a strong contender for the title of one of the best forever stocks to buy right now. Its impressive financial performance, growing dividends, expanding global reach, innovation, strong brand, and resilience make it an attractive investment for long-term investors. As the world continues to shift towards digital payments, Mastercard is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and deliver consistent returns for its shareholders. So, if you're looking for a solid addition to your investment portfolio, consider adding Mastercard to your watchlist and buying in when the time is right.