Investing in stocks requires careful consideration beyond just financial statements. Here are seven critical factors to evaluate before making an investment decision:

1. Sustainable Competitive Advantage (Buffett’s Moat)

Look for businesses with a sustainable competitive advantage that protects them from competitors. This could be brand loyalty, patents, unique technology, or economies of scale. Warren Buffett famously refers to this as a “moat” that shields the business from erosion of profits.

2. Visibility and Predictability of Revenue and Earnings

Stable and predictable revenue and earnings provide confidence in the company’s financial health and future prospects. Analyze historical data and industry trends to assess how reliable the company’s financial performance is.

3. Customer Lock-In and Switching Costs

Businesses with high customer retention rates and high switching costs have a competitive advantage. Evaluate whether customers are locked into using the company’s products or services due to cost, convenience, or other factors.

4. Customer Concentration

Consider if a significant portion of the company’s sales comes from a few large customers. Dependency on a small number of clients can pose risks if those relationships change or if customers reduce their spending.

5. Dependency on Major Partners

Assess whether the business relies heavily on one or more major partners, suppliers, or distributors. A strong reliance on key partners could expose the company to risks such as supply chain disruptions or changes in partnership terms.

6. Organic Growth vs. Marketing Spend

Understand how the business achieves growth. Organic growth, driven by innovation and market demand, is typically more sustainable than growth reliant on heavy marketing spending. Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the company’s growth strategies.

7. Expected Growth Rate

Consider the company’s growth prospects and how fast it is expected to grow compared to industry peers. Sustainable growth potential is crucial for long-term investment success. Look for companies with clear strategies for expanding market share or entering new markets.