Looking to build a reliable portfolio of shares but aren't sure where to start? I've got you covered, with 5 share ideas in various industries that are worth holding for the long term:
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp Ltd (ASX:FPH) – healthcare
Fisher & Paykel is a New Zealand-based oxygen equipment designer and manufacturer with an impressive record of growing earnings and profits. The company's products are growing market share in the US and Fisher & Paykel appears to have long-term tailwinds driving its business. Although the obstructive sleep apnoea segment is growing more competitive, Fisher & Paykel invests in research & development and has a strong pipeline of products.
Vocus Group Ltd (ASX:VOC) – telecom
This telecom company has been written down by the market in recent times over fears that its acquisitions are underperforming. However, the modest share price compensates for these worries, in my opinion, and the company has a strong network of fibre cable that should be able to reliably generate cash for years to come. Dividends are expected to increase once the company slows its investment in growth.
Greencross Limited (ASX:GXL) – retail
Although predominantly a retailer, Greencross also has a significant veterinarian business, which it is migrating into its retail stores. Experience shows that co-located vets and retailers improve the sales of both businesses while also having lower start-up costs. Modest growth in the pet industry and steady expansion could see Greencross become much larger over time.
Sonic Healthcare Limited (ASX: SHL) – healthcare
A globally diversified pathology centre operator, Sonic Healthcare grows mostly through acquisition and partly through long-term tailwinds of ageing populations and growing demand for scans. The company has a track record of expanding across the globe and, although it is not cheap, could make a respectable 10-year investment.
Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) – financial
An annuity provider and fund manager, Challenger has a solid track record of growing earnings and benefits from the long-term tailwind of an ageing population. Challenger's guaranteed-income financial products both serve a genuine need for retirees and allow the company to generate attractive profits over the long term.
