Economic Overview - The University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Index for mid-March dropped to 57.9, significantly below the consensus estimate of 63.2 and the final reading of 64.7 in February, indicating a decline in consumer confidence [4] - The short-term inflation outlook increased to 4.9% in March from 4.3% in February, the highest since November 2022, while the long-term inflation outlook rose to 3.9% from 3.4%, marking the highest since February 1991 [5] Investment Strategy - Investment in low-beta high-yielding stocks is recommended as a strategy to safeguard portfolios during uncertain market conditions, with the potential for upside if markets recover [6][8] - The utility sector is highlighted for its stability and consistent demand, making it a favorable choice for income-oriented investors [7][8] Company Highlights Ameren Corp. (AEE) - Ameren plans to invest up to $26.3 billion from 2025 to 2029 to enhance customer reliability and transition to cleaner energy sources [11][12] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 6% and 6.7%, respectively, with a current dividend yield of 2.90% [14] Atmos Energy Corp. (ATO) - Atmos Energy benefits from rising demand for natural gas and has a long-term investment plan to improve pipeline reliability [15] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 18.2% and 5.1%, respectively, with a current dividend yield of 2.37% [17] American Water Works Co. Inc. (AWK) - American Water Works is expanding through acquisitions and new water rates, with pending acquisitions expected to add 24,200 customers [21] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 1.1% and 5.9%, respectively, with a current dividend yield of 2.15% [22] Entergy Corp. (ETR) - Entergy plans to invest $37 billion from 2025 to 2028 to modernize its infrastructure and expand renewable capacity [23] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 5.5% and 6.3%, respectively, with a current dividend yield of 2.90% [25] NiSource Inc. (NI) - NiSource expects to invest $19.4 billion from 2025 to 2029 to modernize infrastructure and aims to retire all coal-generating sources by 2028 [26][27] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for the current year are 11.1% and 9.1%, respectively, with a current dividend yield of 2.90% [28]