Their prospects look intact despite some recent roadblocks.
Apple ( AAPL 1.82% ) and Eli Lilly ( LLY -0.20% ) share several similarities. Both are long-standing leaders in their respective industries, having produced market-beating returns over the past 10 years, but have lagged behind the market in 2025.
However, despite their poor performances this year, Apple and Eli Lilly still appear to be attractive stocks. In fact, they have qualities that make them likely to deliver excellent returns over the long run, making them great forever picks.
1. Apple
Apple has been dealing with the threat of tariffs for the entire year. And although that's a challenge worth monitoring, the company's underlying business remains attractive. For one thing, it consistently records strong