7 Stalwart Stocks to Buy and Hold Through Any Storm

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the appeal of acquiring stalwart stocks, likening it to befriending a powerful figure for security and stability in uncertain market conditions [1] Group 1: Procter & Gamble (PG) - Procter & Gamble is highlighted as a consumer goods giant that remains essential regardless of economic conditions, with a revenue of over $82 billion for the fiscal year ending June 2023 [2] - Analysts project revenue growth to $84.74 billion in 2024 and $88.06 billion in 2025, indicating a consistent growth trajectory [2] - The company offers a forward dividend yield of 2.34%, with a payout increase for the past 68 years, making it a premier stalwart stock [3] Group 2: Kroger (KR) - Kroger is positioned as a grocery store giant that balances price and quality, making it relevant for families looking to save on food expenses [5] - The stock trades at a forward earnings multiple of 11.21X, significantly below the sector median of 17.56X, suggesting potential for growth [5] - Analysts estimate earnings per share of $4.60 for the current year and $4.72 for 2025, supported by ongoing economic realities [5][6] Group 3: Coca-Cola (KO) - Coca-Cola is recognized for its affordability and potential to benefit from consumers trading down from more expensive options, with projected sales of $45.77 billion for the current year [7] - Analysts expect sales to reach over $48 billion by the end of next year, with high-side estimates of $46.5 billion in 2024 and $48.78 billion in 2025 [7] - The stock has a forward dividend yield of 3.17% and a payout increase track record of 63 years, making it a strong candidate for stalwart stocks [8] Group 4: Meta Platforms (META) - Meta Platforms, traditionally not seen as a stalwart stock, has shifted its narrative by announcing a dividend for the first time [10] - The company reported sales of $134.9 billion last year, with analysts projecting $158.21 billion in revenue for the current year and $177.95 billion for the following year [11] - Meta is viewed as a strong buy with a consensus price target of $529, reflecting its influential market position [11] Group 5: Exelon (EXC) - Exelon is a public utility firm that benefits from a natural monopoly, making it a reliable stalwart stock despite recent market challenges [12] - Analysts predict revenue declines in 2024 and 2025, but high-side estimates suggest modest growth, supported by consistent profitability [13] - The company offers a forward dividend yield of 4.21% and is rated a moderate buy with a price target of $41 [13] Group 6: Microsoft (MSFT) - Microsoft is recognized for its strong position in business software and PC operating systems, with projected sales of $244.26 billion in 2024 and $279.24 billion in 2025 [14][15] - The company’s recent focus on artificial intelligence is seen as a significant growth driver, despite skepticism about the technology's impact on jobs [14] Group 7: ConocoPhillips (COP) - ConocoPhillips, while primarily focused on hydrocarbon exploration, remains relevant in the energy sector despite the push for renewable energy [16] - The company reported revenue of $56.14 billion last year, with projections of $58.96 billion in 2024 and over $61 billion in 2025 [17] - ConocoPhillips has a strong buy consensus and a forward yield of 2.08%, positioning it as a balanced stalwart stock [17]