20 Most Profitable Stocks of the Last 20 Years

7. HEICO Corporation (NYSE:HEI)

20-Year Annualized Return: 22.46% 

HEICO Corporation (NYSE: HEI) has emerged as one of the most profitable stocks over the past two decades. The company is a leading aerospace and electronics manufacturer, specializing in niche products for the aviation, defense, space, and telecommunications industries.

HEICO Corporation reported strong financial performance for Q1 2024, with net sales increasing by 44% to $896.4 million compared to $620.9 million in Q1 2023. The company’s commercial aerospace sales expansion was a significant driver which was supported by fourteen consecutive quarters of sequential growth in net sales within the Flight Support Group, driven by heightened demand for aerospace products and services. Contributions from acquisitions made in fiscal 2023 also bolstered revenue growth. Net income increased by 23% to $114.7 million, or $0.82 per diluted share, in Q1 2024, up from $93.0 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, in Q1 2023. Looking forward, HEICO remains focused on sustaining growth through continued aerospace sector strength, acquisitions, and operational efficiencies.

In Q1 2024, there were around 52 hedge fund holders in the company, up from 46 in the previous quarter. Giverny Capital held the largest position in the company with around 718,995 shares worth $110,682,090.

HEICO Corporation (NYSE: HEI) stock is rated “Strong Buy” by 10 analysts. Among the 9 analysts providing 12-month price forecasts, the average target is $233.56, ranging from $184 to $250. This indicates a modest potential upside of 2.43% from the current stock price of $228.03.