Thanks to globalization, the world is becoming a smaller, more interconnected place. And borders are becoming less important when it comes to stocks. What matters is not where a company is headquartered but where it generates its revenues and profits and where future growth opportunities lie.

We scoured the globe for high-quality companies that are global leaders in their industries. In addition to looking for strong profitability, finances and management, we sought companies with bright long-term-growth prospects -- which in several cases stem from high exposure to emerging markets. Finally, we focused on stocks that may not be cheap but are at least trading at prices that appear attractive relative to the companies' commanding market positions and long-term business prospects. Here are the ten best stocks we found -- half based in the U.S. and half overseas. (Prices and related data are as of January 3.)