VeriSign: The stealth winner in Buffett's portfolio
VeriSign stock $VRSN are up more than 21% this year, making it Berkshire Hathaway's best-performing U.S. investment. With growth of more than 32% over the past 12 months, the firm is showing that its stable business model, high margins and removal of regulatory risk are delivering attractive returns to investors.
A stable business model with regular earnings:
.com and .net domain management - $VRSN collects domain registration and renewal fees
Growing number of websites - natural growth of the Internet drives revenue
EBITDA margin of over 65% - extremely profitable model with low operating costs
Reason for significance: $VRSN operates as an "internet utility" that capitalizes on the growth of the digital world without the need for high investment.
Regulatory uncertainty removed:
Federal contract extension - Biden administration allowed $VRSN to continue to manage domains
Ability to adjust pricing - company can periodically increase domain registration fees
Monopoly status - there is no competition for .com and .net domains
Reason for significance: A long-term contract guarantees stable revenue and reinforces investor confidence in the sustainability of profitability.
Buffett's bet on stability:
Berkshire Hathaway owns 14% of $VRSN
Held in portfolio since 2012, position increased in 2024
Long-term philosophy: bet on companies with high profitability and minimal risk
Investment perspective: why VeriSign is attractive:
Stable revenue - predictable model with recurring payments
High profitability - extremely high margins and low costs
Buffett endorsement - stock held by Berkshire Hathaway for over 10 years
Safe growth title - in a turbulent technology sector, VRSN is a defensive bet
VeriSign $VRSN is the "hidden treasure" in Buffett's portfolio, combining monopoly position, steady growth and minimal risk. For investors looking for a safe growth title without much volatility, VRSN is a very attractive option.
It's probably not that interesting to me, but Buffett has clearly succeeded in this investment and it's very likely that the stock will continue to rise for some time.
I didn't even know Buffett had these stocks in his portfolio. The growth is pretty steady and the business is doing well too.
The stock is up 20% this year alone, which is great, and I would love to have their stock in my portfolio, but I want to wait for a better price.