Mastercard (NYSE:MA) operates the world’s second-largest payment network and one of the best known global brands. During the quarter, shares rose as investors applauded continued payment volume growth and a slightly improved economic global outlook. Mastercard is among the most attractive businesses we own. Its network is well entrenched within the plumbing of payment systems across the globe. The transition from cash to digital forms of payment provide growth opportunities, while the core business produces healthy doses of excess cash flow with modest reinvestment requirements.
- From Weitz Balanced Fund third quarter 2016 commentary.
