3 underrated inflation-proof stocks to buy now, according to ChatGPT-4o

Group 1: Inflation Context - Inflation in the United States remains high, above the Federal Reserve's target of below 2%, despite signs of cooling [1] - Investors are seeking assets that can provide protection against inflation [1] Group 2: W.P. Carey (NYSE: WPC) - W.P. Carey is a real estate investment trust (REIT) with a diversified portfolio, including industrial, office, retail, and warehouse properties [2] - Many of its leases are linked to inflation, ensuring a sustainable revenue stream [2] - The company reported a revenue decline to $389.7 million for Q2 2024, down 13.9% from $452.6 million in Q2 2023 [3] - The stock gained almost 8% over the past month but is down over 8% year-to-date, trading at $60 [3] Group 3: American Water Works (NYSE: AWK) - American Water Works is considered an inflation-proof stock due to its focus on water utilities, which have consistent demand and minimal competition [5] - The company’s Q2 2024 revenues grew 4.7% year-over-year to $1.15 billion [6] - AWK was trading at $143, reflecting year-to-date gains of over 7% [6] Group 4: Kroger (NYSE: KR) - Kroger has strong pricing power and inelastic demand for groceries, allowing it to pass costs onto consumers during inflation [8] - The stock is viewed as undervalued due to perceptions of the grocery retail industry as low-margin and highly competitive [8] - Kroger's stock is trading at $53, having gained nearly 2% in the past week and over 16% year-to-date [8]