MAR

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR) is one of the world's largest hospitality companies, founded in 1927 and headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. What began as a root beer stand has evolved into a global hospitality empire operating, franchising, and licensing hotel properties across 139 countries and territories. The company went public in 1998 and has since grown to manage approximately 8,000 properties under 30 distinct hotel brands, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations. Marriott operates through an asset-light business model, primarily earning fees from franchise agreements rather than owning real estate directly.