3 Consumer Staples Stocks to Play Safe as Consumer Sentiment Hits a Low

Economic Overview - Consumer sentiment has dropped to 50.8 in April, a decline of 10.9% from March's reading of 57, and 34.2% lower than the same period last year, marking the lowest level since June 2022 and the second-lowest since 1952 [4] - The five-year inflation outlook has increased by 0.3% to 4.4%, the highest since June 1991, while the current economic conditions index fell by 11.4% to 56.5 in April [5] - The expectations index decreased by 10.3% from March to 47.2 in April, the lowest since May 1980 [5] - Following President Trump's announcement of tariffs, markets experienced a significant downturn, with $6.2 trillion lost in just two sessions [6] Investment Recommendations - In light of the current economic climate, investing in safe-haven stocks such as consumer staples is advisable, with Carriage Services, Inc. (CSV), Reed's, Inc. (REED), and BellRing Brands, Inc. (BRBR) identified as strong investment opportunities [2] - These stocks are categorized as low-beta, with beta values less than 1, making them less volatile compared to the broader market [3] Company Profiles - Carriage Services, Inc. (CSV): A leading provider of death care services in the U.S., with an expected earnings growth rate of 21.1% for the current year and a Zacks Rank of 1. The earnings estimate has improved by 13.8% over the past 60 days, and the company has a beta of 0.77 [10][11][12] - Reed's, Inc. (REED): Develops and markets natural sodas and is expanding into non-alcoholic beverages. The expected earnings growth rate is 96.1% for the current year, with a Zacks Rank of 2 and a beta of 0.62. The earnings estimate has improved by 33.3% over the past 60 days [13][14] - BellRing Brands, Inc. (BRBR): Manufactures nutrition products, including protein shakes and supplements. The expected earnings growth rate is 16.6% for the current year, with a Zacks Rank of 2 and a beta of 0.78. The earnings estimate has improved by 0.9% over the past 60 days [15][16]