Yes, WMT's predictable earnings growth is the reason it has traded at a premium and will probably continue to do so. I just have a policy of not buying stocks at a premium regardless of history or forward earnings expectations. A stock that is trading at 7 times net tangible value is outside of my the range my strategy allows. I follow this strategy strictly to help minimize risk. WMT may well be an exception to my rule but if I break my rule for them, I may be tempted to break my rule for others. Best to just follow my own advice and pass. There are plenty of other fish in the sea. Yes, I would say 25 years classifies you as a long term investor! Every stock I talk about here should be considered long term prospects as I believe it makes sense to hold dividend stock s for the long term. Good Luck!!!