The 100-Year Stock Test: How to Identify Companies Built to Last

What does it take for a company to survive—and thrive—for the next 100 years?

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, David Coombs introduces the 100-Year Stock Test, a long-term value investing framework inspired by the principles of Benjamin Graham and enduring business fundamentals. Instead of chasing short-term market trends, this episode challenges investors to think like long-term owners and focus on resilience, durability, and structural strength.

You’ll learn why most companies fail within decades—and what sets the rare survivors apart. We explore the key traits shared by century-long businesses, including durable demand, economic moats, financial discipline, risk management, and adaptability without abandoning core principles.

From consumer staples and healthcare to utilities and essential infrastructure, this episode explains which industries are most likely to endure—and why businesses built on hype, excessive debt, or fragile models often fail. You’ll also discover how corporate culture, conservative balance sheets, and thoughtful innovation contribute to long-term survival.

Whether you’re a value investor, long-term shareholder, or simply looking to reduce risk and invest more intelligently, the 100-Year Stock Test offers a powerful mental framework for evaluating business quality beyond price charts and short-term performance.

If you believe investing is about preserving capital, compounding wealth, and owning strong businesses, this episode will help you sharpen your decision-making and avoid common investing mistakes.