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10 Totally Boring Stocks That Made Warren Buffett Millions

These boring investments have quietly built Buffett’s massive wealth over decades.

By Adam Palasciano

Edited by Laura Ratliff

Updated Feb. 23, 2025

Warren Buffett has never chased hype or trendy investments. Instead, he has built his fortune by investing in stable, reliable companies that generate consistent profits.

While some may call these stocks "boring," they have delivered massive returns, proving that long-term investing beats short-term speculation.

If you want to start investing wisely, Buffett’s portfolio offers a masterclass in choosing dependable, wealth-building stocks.

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American Express (AXP)

Buffett first invested in American Express in 1991 and has held onto it for decades. The company’s strong brand and dominance in the credit card industry have made it a reliable cash cow.

American Express continues to thrive despite economic downturns, showing that financial services can be a stable source of long-term wealth.

Berkshire Hathaway owns about 21.5% of outstanding American Express shares, which represents about 15.9% of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio.

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Coca-Cola (KO)

Buffett’s love for Coca-Cola dates back to Berkshire Hathaway’s initial investment in the company in 1985. Coca-Cola’s brand power, global reach, pricing strength, and durable advantage make it a steady performer.

Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 9.1% of Coca-Cola, which represents 8.4% of Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio.

Geico Insurance (BRK.B)

Geico Insurance was one of Berkshire Hathaway’s earliest investments after Buffett saw significant long-term potential.

The insurance giant benefits from low operating costs, which help maintain its “fundamental advantage” and give it a competitive edge.

Since Berkshire Hathaway's complete acquisition of Geico, it’s been a cornerstone of its profits, showing that insurance — while not exciting — can be highly lucrative.

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Kroger (KR)

Buffett’s investment in Kroger highlights his confidence in essential businesses. As one of the largest grocery chains in the U.S., Kroger generates consistent revenue and pays decent dividends to its shareholders regardless of economic conditions.

Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 6.9% of Kroger, which represents about .6% of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio.

Kraft Heinz (KHC)

Kraft Heinz remains a key part of Buffett’s portfolio. The company’s household-name brands, such as Maxwell House, Kool-Aid, and Philadelphia, provide a steady revenue stream even as consumer preferences shift.

Buffett’s strategy relies on long-term value, betting that strong brands will rebound. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 26.9% of Kraft Heinz, which represents about 3.2% of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio.

DaVita (DVA)

DaVita may not be a household name, but it dominates the kidney dialysis industry. Buffett’s investment in this healthcare company reflects his belief in businesses with high barriers to entry.

With an aging population and increasing demand for dialysis services, DaVita provides a reliable, long-term growth opportunity. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 44% of DaVita, representing about 2% of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio.

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Moody’s (MCO)

Buffett’s stake in Moody’s showcases his love for companies with wide economic moats. As a leader in credit ratings, Moody’s helps businesses comply with corporate regulations and assess risk.

The financial world depends on Moody’s ratings, which ensure the company's profitability for years. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 11.5% of Moody’s, representing about 3.9% of its portfolio.

Bank of America (BAC)

Buffett has long been a fan of the banking sector, and Bank of America is one of his top financial holdings. He loves bank stocks because they grow in lockstep with the U.S. economy and usually have long growth periods.

Bank of America remains a major cornerstone of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 10.5% of Bank of America, representing 11.7% of its portfolio.

Chevron (CVX)

Buffett has a history of investing in energy stocks, and Chevron is one of his biggest bets in the sector.

The oil giant provides reliable cash flow through dividends and benefits from its integrated business model — Chevron remains one of Buffett's largest holdings and has increased its dividend to shareholders for 37 consecutive years.

While energy prices fluctuate, Buffett appreciates Chevron’s ability to generate profits despite economic downturns. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 6.7% of Chevron, which represents about 5.9% of Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio.

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Occidental Petroleum (OXY)

Buffett has made significant investments in Occidental Petroleum in recent years, seeing long-term potential in the company’s oil and gas production. Buffet anticipates the spot price of oil remaining elevated or rising.

The energy sector remains critical to global economies, and Occidental Petroleum is a steady performer in Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns about 34% of Occidental Petroleum, representing about 4.5% of its portfolio.

Bottom line

Warren Buffett’s investment philosophy proves that wealth isn’t built on excitement but on consistency. Although these "boring" stocks may not grab headlines, they have delivered enormous returns over time.

Whether you’re just starting or evaluating signs of financial success, Buffett’s strategy reminds you that slow and steady wins the race. Are your investments positioned for long-term growth?

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