Tech giants (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) have a lot in common. Both are among the biggest companies in the world by market cap, have delivered amazing returns to longtime shareholders, and have plenty of growth opportunities to exploit. However, though they aren't known primarily for their dividends, both stocks are excellent choices for income-seeking investors.

Building a solid economic moat is one of the keys to success and longevity for any business. That's precisely what Apple has done over the years. Part of the company's competitive edge now comes from its brand name, which it has built into one of the most valuable in the world. The brand loyalty of its customers allows it to charge outrageous prices for its products, none of which are necessary goods consumers can't live with.

Still, Apple sells tens of billions of dollars worth of iPhones and other devices every quarter regardless of economic conditions. Detractors will quickly point out that in its fiscal 2023, which ended on Sept. 30, Apple's net sales declined by about 3% year over year to $383.3 billion. All that means, though, is that the tech company isn't completely immune to economic pressures, but it can still perform reasonably well among these challenges.

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Source Fool.com