Buffett's Favorite Stocks: Holding Strong While Others Sell

Warren Buffett, the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, has been shedding shares of Apple and Bank of America, but there are three stocks he's holding onto for the long haul. These stocks, which he calls "truly wonderful" businesses, have unique advantages that make them stand out. American Express, a long-time Buffett favorite, operates its own payment network. This means it keeps all the swipe fees, which amounted to $8. 8 billion last quarter. Its customers are also shifting towards premium cards with high annual fees, showing resilience during economic slowdowns. Coca-Cola, another Buffett staple, has a globally recognizable brand and strong pricing power. It can test new products easily and has seen its market share grow. Despite recent price drops, shares are still reasonably priced. Occidental Petroleum, a newer addition to Berkshire's portfolio, has substantial exposure to oil prices. Its recent acquisition of CrownRock is expected to boost free cash flow, but the drop in oil prices has put the company in a tough spot. Buffett's recent lack of purchases is puzzling, but he seems content with Berkshire's significant stake. These stocks may deserve a spot in your portfolio, but it's important to consider the current market conditions and potential risks.