Which Stocks Should You Hold for the Next Decade?

Investors need to begin looking at names such as Canadian National Railway (TSX:CNR)(NYSE:CNI) as the best decade-long holds.

For those who are considering a decade-long vacation on a remote island (and for those who are not), it may be a very good idea to ask what investment you would be most willing to hold for this lengthy period of time. To make the question more interesting, let’s assume that there are no exits along the way.

The first thing to consider is what the world will look like in 10 years and which companies will be essential to run the economy. After that, the next important step we can take is overlaying Porter’s five forces in an effort to figure out what industry (or company) will be the most profitable. Certain choices will surprise no one.

The first name on the list is none other than Canadian National Railway (TSX:CNR)(NYSE:CNI), which has a unique footprint to move goods across the country. As the lowest-cost method to transport goods, it will be difficult for any competitor to match this operation in a cost-effective way. Instead of trying to time the market, this name can be purchased at any moment and held for at least a decade!

The second name on the list is Royal Bank of Canada (TSX:RY)(NYSE:RY), which is the largest Canadian bank. In what has traditionally been a very lucrative sector, banking will, without a doubt, be an essential part of the world in a decade from now. In addition to the current 3.6% dividend yield, investors can expect a substantial amount of upside from this name, as the barriers to entry (and expansion) remain very high in the current “compliance” climate.

South of the border, U.S. juggernaut Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG)(NASDAQ:GOOGL), formerly Google, remains a top pick, as the technology side of things is still evolving. In spite of not paying a dividend, the company is extremely interesting, as it continues to bring about major shifts in the marketplace. In fact, it is due to this name that insurance companies have been excluded from this list. Although many insurance segments will remain profitable, the introduction of the self-driving car will, without a doubt, have a ripple effect throughout the industry. As this is only one of the things Alphabet is doing, it remains a company that all investors should consider as a long-term hold.

The last holding on the list is HORIZNS MARIJUNA LF CL A UNT ETF (TSX:HMMJ), which, at the current time, is the highest-risk name of the bunch. As a proxy for the marijuana industry as a whole, there is inevitably going to be many failures matched by a number of incredible successes. Barring the accuracy of one’s crystal ball, this may be the best place for investors to put their money to receive a suitable return from the industry. Time will tell!

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Fool contributor Ryan Goldsman owns shares of Canadian National Railway. David Gardner owns shares of Alphabet (A shares), Alphabet (C shares), and Canadian National Railway. Tom Gardner owns shares of Alphabet (A shares) and Alphabet (C shares). The Motley Fool owns shares of Alphabet (A shares), Alphabet (C shares), and Canadian National Railway. Canadian National Railway is a recommendation of Stock Advisor Canada.

More on Investing

The virtual button with the letters AI in a circle hovering above a keyboard, about to be clicked by a cursor.
Tech Stocks

Emerging Canadian AI Companies With Big Potential

These tech stocks are paving the way to an AI-filled future, but still offer enough growth ahead for a strong…

Read more »

Young Boy with Jet Pack Dreams of Flying
Tech Stocks

Is Constellation Software Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold for 2025?

CSU stock has long been a strong option for high growth, high value stocks. But are there now too many…

Read more »

rising arrow with flames
Investing

2 Riskier Stocks With High Potential for Canadian Investors in November

Risky stocks such as Well Health Technologies have the potential to provide life-changing long-term returns.

Read more »

hand stacks coins
Dividend Stocks

3 Ultra-High-Yield Dividend Stocks You Can Buy and Hold for a Decade

These three high-yield dividend stocks still have some work to do, but each are in steady areas that are only…

Read more »

senior man and woman stretch their legs on yoga mats outside
Dividend Stocks

TFSA: 2 Canadian Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

Here are 2 TFSA-worthy Canadian stocks. Which one is a good buy for your TFSA today?

Read more »

Canada day banner background design of flag
Investing

Got $500? 5 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy and Hold

These top Canadian stocks have solid fundamentals with potential to outperform the benchmark index by a wide margin.

Read more »

man touches brain to show a good idea
Energy Stocks

1 No-Brainer Energy Stock to Buy With $500 Right Now

Should you buy a cyclical energy stock at its decade-high? Probably not. But read this before you make a decision.

Read more »

Asset Management
Stocks for Beginners

TFSA: 4 Canadian Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

Thinking about what to buy with the new TFSA contribution space in 2025? These four Canadian stocks are worth holding…

Read more »