Altria Group (NYSE:MO) is riding on decades of success. Shares of the tobacco giant continued their climb recently with a trot from around $70 up to closing over $74. MO is one of the stocks in my "just own it forever" part of the portfolio. The company is incredibly resistant to recessions and with Philip Morris (NYSE:PM) they are leading innovation within the sector. As the 800-pound gorilla in the domestic tobacco market, MO is in position to wield influence over the regulatory process. Those factors all combine nicely to create a company that fits into most portfolio strategies.

Bringing IQOS to America

Philip Morris developed IQOS overseas and it has been an incredible success. The technology was demanded so heavily by consumers that Philip Morris was unable to meet the demand from retailers. After MO and PM split off from each other around a decade ago, the two stocks diverged with MO having the more robust growth. That isn't surprising when you consider that the strong dollar was the primary headwind for Philip Morris International.

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