The Nasdaq Is Falling: 4 of the Safest Stocks to Buy Right Now

Core Viewpoint - A significant decline in the Nasdaq Composite index presents opportunities for value-oriented investors, particularly in defensive and utility sectors. Group 1: Market Overview - The Nasdaq Composite has experienced a decline of 10.7% from its peak on February 18, 2025, to its low on March 4, 2025, indicating a potential correction phase [2][3] - The uncertainty surrounding President Trump's tariffs has historically led to poor stock performance, reminiscent of the 2018 and 2019 tariff announcements [4] Group 2: Investment Opportunities - Alphabet (GOOGL) - Alphabet is highlighted as a strong investment despite its reliance on advertising, which constitutes 75% of its $96.5 billion sales in 2024 [7] - The company maintains a dominant position in the search engine market, with Google holding an 89% to 93% share globally [8] - Alphabet's shares are trading at less than 17 times forward earnings estimates, making it an attractive buy for long-term investors [9] - York Water (YORW) - York Water is characterized as a stable utility stock with predictable cash flows, making it a safe investment during market volatility [10][12] - The company has paid dividends every year since 1816 and has increased its quarterly payout for 28 consecutive years, currently valued at a 25% discount to its average forward P/E multiple over the last five years [13] - Pfizer (PFE) - Pfizer is positioned as a defensive investment, with a diverse portfolio of therapies ensuring consistent demand despite market corrections [15] - The company reported $63.6 billion in revenue for 2024, a 52% increase from 2020, and has recently acquired Seagen for $43 billion, enhancing its oncology pipeline [16][17] - Pfizer's forward P/E ratio is slightly above 8, with a dividend yield nearing 7%, making it an appealing option during market downturns [17] - Sirius XM Holdings (SIRI) - Sirius XM benefits from its legal monopoly in satellite radio, providing it with subscription pricing power [18] - The company generates 76% of its revenue from subscriptions, making it less vulnerable to economic downturns compared to advertising-dependent companies [19] - Sirius XM's forward P/E of 7.6 is significantly lower than its five-year average, and it offers a dividend yield of 4.6% [21]