Group 1: Market Overview - Equity markets have experienced volatility due to competition from Chinese companies in the AI sector, which significantly impacts indexes like the Nasdaq Composite [1] - The Trump administration's potential tariffs on various countries may lead to retaliatory actions, further affecting stock market performance [1] Group 2: Johnson & Johnson - Johnson & Johnson operates in the defensive healthcare industry, which remains stable during market downturns as demand for medical services persists [3] - The company is a pharmaceutical leader with a diverse portfolio, including drugs that generate over $1 billion in annual sales across various therapeutic areas [4] - Johnson & Johnson's medical devices segment also contributes to its stability, providing essential services that are less affected by economic fluctuations [5] - The company has a strong track record of revenue and earnings growth, supported by its ability to innovate in medicines and medical devices [6] - Johnson & Johnson is nearing a settlement for over 99.75% of lawsuits related to its talc-based products, which may alleviate some legal pressures [6] - The company has consistently delivered strong financial results and has a history of increasing dividends for 62 consecutive years, making it a reliable investment during downturns [8] Group 3: HCA Healthcare - HCA Healthcare is a leading hospital chain in the U.S., with a significant presence in Texas and Florida, and its services remain in demand during economic downturns [9] - While elective surgeries may decline during recessions, the overall need for hospital services remains high, ensuring steady demand for HCA Healthcare [10] - The company has successfully increased its market share from 26.5% in 2019 to approximately 28% in 2021, demonstrating resilience during challenging times [10] - HCA Healthcare benefits from established relationships with third-party payers, patients, and physicians, providing a competitive advantage in the industry [12] - Projections indicate that hospital spending will continue to rise, positioning HCA Healthcare to capitalize on this long-term trend and deliver strong returns for investors [13]
2 Stocks to Buy if There Is a Market Crash in 2025