3 Unstoppable Stocks That You Can Buy and Hold for Years

One thing that can make investing seem daunting and intimidating is how quickly things change in the markets. Knowing which stocks to own and which ones are hot buys right now can turn investing into a part-time job. But if you stick with large, established businesses that have bright futures, it doesn't have to be that complicated or difficult. There are many investments you can buy and hold for years and not worry about.

Three stocks that fit that mold and that can be suitable for all types of investors are Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) , Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) , and Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST) . With these varied investments, you can diversify your portfolio while having positions in some unstoppable businesses. Here's why these stocks can make for solid options for long-term investors.

1. Eli Lilly

Eli Lilly looks likely to become the first healthcare stock to reach a $1 trillion valuation. It's already worth more than $860 billion, and it has multiple growth catalysts, which will likely send its stock price higher in the future.

The most obvious catalyst is tirzepatide. That is the active ingredient in both Zepbound and Mounjaro, its weight loss and diabetes treatments. At its peak, analysts believe that tirzepatide could generate up to $50 billion in annual revenue for Eli Lilly.

And there's the possibility that could be understated. As more studies are done on the drug and more health benefits are uncovered, there may be even more reasons for patients to take these medications in the future.

Another catalyst is Kisunla, which regulators recently approved as a treatment for early Alzheimer's. While it may not generate tens of billions in revenue for Eli Lilly, it's another blockbuster drug that the company can tap into for more growth.

On top of all this, Eli Lilly still continues to seek out more opportunities. Recently, it announced plans to acquire Morphic Holding for $3.2 billion, which would allow it to secure some promising treatments for inflammatory bowel syndrome.

Eli Lilly's constant pursuit of growth is what makes this a truly unstoppable stock to buy and hold. While its valuation may look high right now, the company's bright future makes it an appealing investment to hang on to for years, possibly forever.

2. Netflix

Streaming giant Netflix has proven that regardless of the competition, it can continue to grow its business. And Netflix has been able to do so while posting a profit -- something many other streaming businesses still struggle with today.

The company has achieved solid growth over the years even as it has been pivoting toward making its own content. Last year, Netflix's bottom line totaled $5.4 billion, which was about twice what it posted in 2020. With a solid profit margin of more than 16%, it has effectively set an example for what a successful streaming business looks like.

Netflix has been raising prices and relying on ads to generate more revenue. It has also been investing into more content, announcing a deal last year with WWE (which TKO Group Holdings owns) to bring its popular shows onto the streaming platform.

As with Eli Lilly, Netflix is a company that's constantly on the lookout for new opportunities, and that's why it can be a solid stock to buy and hold.

3. Costco Wholesale

Costco is arguably the best retail stock to own, as it has often posted above-average same-store sales growth . High membership retention rates in excess of 90% clearly demonstrate that shoppers see a lot of value in paying for access to the company's busy warehouses. While shoppers may be disappointed to learn that Costco is increasing its membership fees this year, it's arguably an overdue move for the business, as the last rate hike took place in 2017.

What's appealing about Costco's business is that it still possesses many growth opportunities, particularly in international markets. In May, the company opened its seventh store in mainland China, and with wait times topping two hours, there's no shortage of interest from Chinese consumers in the big-box retailer.

In the trailing 12 months, the company has generated $7.2 billion in profit on sales totaling $253.7 billion. With a stable business and many levers to pull for more international growth, Costco is a business that's likely to become larger and more valuable in the years ahead.

For investors, it's one of the best stocks to buy and hold.

David Jagielski has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Netflix. The Motley Fool recommends TKO Group Holdings. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .