The Robben Letter
Research on exceptional businesses, capital allocation, and long-term investing.
Written by
Brian Robben
Connect
Oct 27, 2026
•
10 min read
Why a growing fleet of engines, decades of aftermarket demand, and a transition from CFM56 to LEAP can keep compounding Safran’s economics long after the original engine sale.
Oct 20, 2026
7 min read
Why exclusive markets, route density, landfill ownership, and disciplined acquisitions create durable local economics.
Oct 13, 2026
4 min read
The best companies can raise prices without giving the increase back through churn, lower volume, discounts, or higher costs.
Oct 6, 2026
9 min read
Why exchanges, clearing, data, and mortgage software create a hard-to-replicate financial infrastructure franchise.
Sep 29, 2026
Why ratings, indices, data, and workflow tools create a difficult-to-replicate financial infrastructure business.
Sep 22, 2026
A shrinking share count can compound earnings per share. That does not necessarily make shareholders wealthier.
Sep 15, 2026
5 min read
Why Visa’s network, global acceptance, and low capital requirements make the business so attractive.
Sep 8, 2026
Why GE’s installed base and aftermarket economics create a difficult-to-replicate franchise.
