What makes a company part of the "Century Club"?

Companies in the Century Club have been in continuous operation for 100 years or more. This means they've successfully navigated multiple economic cycles, technological changes, and competitive pressures over more than a century. These rare businesses have demonstrated exceptional adaptability and resilience that most companies simply don't achieve.

Why is corporate longevity important for investors?

Companies that have operated for over a century typically have established business models, strong brand recognition, and proven ability to adapt to changing markets. This longevity often translates to stability and consistent returns for investors. During economic uncertainty, these companies can provide a defensive element in a portfolio, as they've already proven their ability to weather severe economic downturns.

Do Century Club companies typically pay dividends?

Yes, many Century Club companies have established histories of paying dividends, often for decades or even a century. These companies typically have mature business models that generate consistent cash flow, allowing them to return value to shareholders through regular dividend payments. However, dividend policies vary by company, so it's important to check each stock's specific dividend yield and payment history.

What is a dividend yield?

Dividend yield is the annual dividend payment amount expressed as a percentage of the current stock price. For example, if a stock trades at $100 and pays annual dividends of $3, its dividend yield is 3%. This metric helps investors compare the income potential of different dividend-paying stocks. Higher yields may offer more immediate income, but extremely high yields can sometimes signal potential problems with the business.

What advantages do century-old companies have in today's market?

Century-old companies often benefit from established supply chains, strong brand recognition, pricing power, and operational efficiencies that newer companies haven't yet developed. These advantages can help them navigate inflationary pressures and supply disruptions more effectively. Their institutional knowledge and experience give them perspective on economic cycles that younger businesses lack, potentially allowing for better strategic decisions during challenging times.

17 handpicked stocks

Century Club

These companies have stood the test of time for over 100 years. Carefully selected by our analysts, this collection showcases businesses with proven resilience, established market positions, and the ability to deliver returns across multiple economic cycles.

Han Tan | Market Analyst

Updated 2 days ago | Published at juin 17