The 1 Stock I'd Buy Before American Express Right Now
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Daniel Foelber)February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article compares two prominent financial stocks, American Express (AXP) and Visa (V), highlighting their strong performance over the past five years. While American Express has delivered a 160.4% gain compared to the S&P 500's 73.7% increase, Visa emerges as the more compelling investment choice. The piece suggests that both companies are solid buys for long-term growth, but Visa offers additional advantages that make it stand out in today’s market.
American Express has seen significant gains due to its strong brand reputation and loyal customer base, particularly in travel and premium card markets. However, Visa’s global reach, innovation in digital payments, and robust partnerships give it an edge. Visa’s ability to adapt to changing consumer trends and its leadership in the payment processing industry make it a more attractive option for investors seeking consistent growth.
For readers interested in finance and investing, this comparison underscores the importance of evaluating not just past performance but also future potential. While American Express remains a strong buy, Visa’s strategic advantages position it as a leader in the payments sector. Investors looking for long-term stability and innovation should consider Visa as a top choice, aligning with the article’s conclusion that it edges out American Express in the current financial landscape.
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/21/2026