This live blog is refreshed periodically throughout the day with the latest updates from the market.To find the latest Stock Market Today threads, click here. Happy Monday. This is TheStreet’s Stock Market Today for Nov. 3, 2025. You can follow the latest updates on the market here in our daily live blog. Update: 9:30 a.m. ET Market Open The U.S. markets are now open, with all four major U.S. market indexes in the green for the moment. The Nasdaq Composite (+1.03%) and S&P 500 (+0.49%) jumped, while the ...

Core Insights - The comparison between Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (VDC) and Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) highlights their performance, costs, and risk profiles in the U.S. consumer staples sector [1] Cost & Size - VDC has an expense ratio of 0.09%, while XLP has a slightly lower expense ratio of 0.08% [2] - As of October 27, 2025, VDC's one-year return is 0.2%, whereas XLP has a negative return of (2.5%) [2] - Dividend yield for VDC is 2.2%, compared to XLP's higher yield of 2.7% [2] - VDC has assets under management (AUM) of $8.5 billion, while XLP has a larger AUM of $16.4 billion [2] Performance & Risk Comparison - Over the past five years, VDC experienced a maximum drawdown of (16.54%), slightly worse than XLP's (16.29%) [3] - An investment of $1,000 in VDC would have grown to $1,344 over five years, compared to $1,268 for XLP [3] Holdings Composition - XLP is concentrated exclusively in the consumer defensive sector with 100% of its assets in this category, holding only 37 stocks [4] - VDC also skews heavily defensive at 98% but includes over 100 companies, providing broader representation and potentially reducing single-stock risk [5] Long-term Returns - Over the past decade, XLP delivered a total return of 99.6%, while VDC outperformed with a total return of 108.1% [6] - The S&P 500 index significantly outperformed both ETFs with a return of 290.8% over the same period [6] Dividend Growth - XLP's latest quarterly dividend payment increased by 46.3% over the past decade, outperforming VDC's dividend growth of 25.9% [8]

Core Insights - The consumer staples sector has remained relatively flat year to date, contrasting with a 15%-plus return for the S&P 500, making it appealing for value investors seeking passive income [1] - The sector includes a diverse range of companies such as household and personal products, retailers, grocery stores, food distributors, non-alcoholic beverages, tobacco, spirits, and consumer packaged goods [3] - Consumer staples tend to be resilient during economic downturns, as demand for essential products remains stable, although consumers may shift to generic brands to save costs [4] Sector Performance - Many leading companies in the consumer staples sector are facing low organic growth, declining sales volumes, and resistance to price increases due to consumers' focus on value amid rising living costs [5] - The sector has underperformed growth stocks in recent years, but low-cost sector ETFs provide an accessible investment avenue for those looking to capitalize on a potential recovery in consumer spending [8] Investment Opportunities - Consumer staples ETFs, such as the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund and the Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF, offer a diversified investment strategy, allowing investors to benefit from a recovery in consumer spending while generating passive income [6] - The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund, managed by State Street Global Advisors, has $16.1 billion in net assets, making it significantly larger than Vanguard's ETF and BlackRock's iShares U.S. Consumer Staples ETF, which has $1.3 billion [7]

The Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (VDC 0.41%) and the iShares US Consumer Staples ETF (IYK 0.22%) both aim to capture the performance of leading U.S. consumer staples companies. While their sector focus is similar, differences in cost, diversification, and portfolio tilt may sway investors comparing these two options.Snapshot (cost & size)MetricIYKVDCIssuerISharesVanguardExpense ratio0.38%0.09%1-yr return (as of 2025-10-27)0.2%0.2%Dividend yield2.4%2.2%Beta0.540.07AUM$1.3 billion$8.5 billionBeta measures pr ...

Market Overview - The S&P 500 is experiencing a rotation with over 50% of its stocks in the green, although some mega-cap stocks like Apple and Nvidia are seeing slight declines [2][3] - There is an inverse relationship observed where market breadth expansion leads to S&P 500 declines, while concentration in stocks results in upward movement [4] Earnings Insights - A mixed reaction was noted from the earnings reports of major tech companies, particularly regarding capital expenditure (capex) guidance [6][7] - Meta's vague capex guidance negatively impacted its stock, while Amazon reported significant growth in AWS revenue and increased capex, positively affecting its stock [7][8] - Apple's recent quarter missed expectations due to supply chain issues in China, leading to initial gains followed by a sell-off [8][9] - Over 60% of the S&P 500 has reported earnings, with over 80% beating expectations [10] Walmart and SNAP Benefits - Walmart could be significantly impacted by the potential suspension of SNAP benefits due to a government shutdown, with estimates suggesting a $500 million weekly impact [10][12] - The company typically receives about 25% of SNAP benefits, which could lead to a $2.5 billion to $3 billion impact on current quarter topline growth if the situation persists [11][13][14] Macro and Geopolitical Factors - The recent FOMC decision resulted in a 25 basis point cut, with ongoing discussions about trade agreements, particularly with China [16][17] - Agricultural products like soybeans are holding up, but corn and wheat are declining, indicating potential volatility in those markets [18] - Crude oil prices may be affected by potential strikes on Venezuelan military assets, with recent imports from Venezuela showing a significant drop [19][20]

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) is included among the 13 Most Undervalued Dividend Stocks to Buy According to Wall Street Analysts. Oppenheimer Lowers Price Target on Church & Dwight (CHD) to $100 Amid Sector Challenges Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) is a N​ew Jersey-based‌ consumer‌ g⁠oods company specializ​ing in pe⁠rsonal car‍e, ho​usehold, and sp​e‌cia⁠lt‍y pro​d⁠u‍cts. On October 21, Oppenheim‌er lowered‍ its pri‍ce target on Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) to $100 from $115 while m ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses three high-yield healthcare stocks: Kenvue, Pfizer, and Omega Healthcare, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying business and risks associated with high dividend yields [2][15]. Kenvue - Kenvue, spun off from Johnson & Johnson in mid-2023, primarily sells over-the-counter products and is more akin to a consumer staples company [3][5]. - The stock has faced challenges, with a 4% decline in sales and a drop in adjusted earnings from $0.32 to $0.29 per share year-over-year [5]. - The current dividend yield is notably high at 5.5%, compared to the average consumer staples yield of 2.7% [6]. - The stock price has fallen significantly, leading to increased yield, but it lacks a strong dividend track record [6]. Pfizer - Pfizer is a well-established pharmaceutical company with a current dividend yield of 6.9% [8][11]. - The company is addressing industry challenges by making capital investments and acquiring Metsera to enhance its drug pipeline [9]. - Pfizer's dividend payout ratio is around 90%, raising concerns about potential cuts, especially following its acquisition of Metsera [11]. - The stock has decreased nearly 60% since late 2021, positioning it as a potential turnaround story [11]. Omega Healthcare - Omega Healthcare is a senior-housing-focused REIT with an attractive dividend yield of 6.6% [12][14]. - The company successfully maintained its dividend during the COVID-19 pandemic, unlike many peers who cut dividends [13]. - Omega is now acquiring assets and returning to normal operations, making it a relatively stable investment choice in the senior housing sector [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights three high-yield healthcare stocks: Kenvue, Medtronic, and Pfizer, each with distinct characteristics and investment considerations. Group 1: Kenvue - Kenvue, spun off from Johnson & Johnson, operates in the consumer staples sector with well-known brands like Band-Aid and Tylenol [4][5]. - The stock has faced negative attention due to health concerns related to Tylenol, leading to a significant price drop and an increased dividend yield of 5.5% [7][8]. - Despite recent performance challenges and lowered guidance, Kenvue is expected to navigate through this period while rewarding investors [9]. Group 2: Medtronic - Medtronic is approaching a significant milestone with 48 consecutive years of dividend increases, just two years shy of becoming a Dividend King [10]. - The company is undergoing a business overhaul, including a spinoff of its diabetes division, which is expected to enhance earnings and focus on more profitable areas [11]. - Medtronic's current dividend yield is around 3%, and it is seen as a stable investment option as the company works to regain investor confidence [12]. Group 3: Pfizer - Pfizer offers the highest yield among the three at nearly 7%, but its dividend payout ratio is close to 100%, raising concerns about sustainability [13]. - The company is pursuing a significant acquisition of Metsera to bolster its drug pipeline, which reflects its commitment to long-term growth despite current challenges [16]. - Viewing Pfizer as a turnaround stock may present an opportunity, as the high yield indicates market skepticism, but the company has a history of resilience [15][17].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unilever reported underlying sales growth of 3.9% in Q3 2025, with underlying price growth at 2.4% and volume contributing 1.5% [5][6][18] - Turnover for Q3 was EUR 14.7 billion, down 3.5% year-on-year, primarily due to a negative currency impact of 6.1% [18][19] - The company expects an adverse currency impact on full-year turnover of around 6% and a 30 basis points impact on the underlying operating margin [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Beauty and Wellbeing and Personal Care were major growth engines, with underlying sales growth of 5.1% and 4.1% respectively [22][10] - Power brands, which represent over 75% of turnover, grew by 4.4% in Q3, with volumes up 1.7% for the total group [6][7] - Home Care underlying sales grew 3.1%, driven by strong performances from CIF and Domestos [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America saw underlying sales growth of 5.5%, driven by Personal Care and Wellbeing brands [7][8] - Emerging markets grew by 4.1%, led by a return to growth in Indonesia and China, despite challenges in India and Latin America [3][9] - Latin America experienced a decline in underlying sales by 2.5%, with a 7.3% decline in volume [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on premium segments and fast-growing channels, with a significant shift towards digital commerce [22][60] - Unilever is preparing for the demerger of its ice cream business, expected to be completed in 2025 [3][17] - The strategic priority is to strengthen the portfolio with more beauty, wellbeing, and personal care products, aiming for a higher market share in key categories [22][47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting full-year outlook despite some market softness, particularly in Latin America [21][22] - The company anticipates volume growth in Q4 to be at least in line with Q3, with an expected improvement in underlying operating margin for the full year [21][68] - Management highlighted the importance of learning from challenges in Latin America to avoid similar issues in other regions [32][75] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in premium innovations and brand execution, which are expected to drive future growth [22][23] - The acquisition of Dr. Squatch is expected to enhance Unilever's presence in the premium male grooming segment [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on volume growth expectations into 2026 - Management confirmed expectations of 2% volume growth into 2026, reflecting confidence in long-term market performance [25][28] Question: Growth of Wellbeing and Prestige in North America - Management noted strong double-digit growth in Liquid I.V. and Nutrafol, with improvements in prestige beauty brands like Hourglass and K18 [28][29] Question: Challenges in Latin America - Management acknowledged self-inflicted issues in Brazil, particularly in laundry and deodorants, and outlined corrective actions being taken [30][31] Question: Pricing outlook in light of commodity costs - Management indicated that while commodity costs are relatively benign, wage inflation and currency devaluation are factors to consider for future pricing strategies [38][39] Question: Performance in China and Indonesia - Management reported positive growth in both markets, with significant improvements in Indonesia attributed to a reset in business fundamentals [71][72]

Core Viewpoint - The recent performance of various companies outside the tech sector indicates a robust real economy, which contrasts with the perception of a market dominated by a few major tech firms. This has led to a rally in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, suggesting that there is strength in the broader economy despite concerns about speculative stocks and potential market risks [2][21]. Company Performance - Wells Fargo reported strong credit quality, while Bank of America highlighted robust consumer spending and saving rates [7][11]. - American Express showed significant spending among younger demographics, indicating solid credit metrics [8]. - RTX (Raytheon Technologies) delivered impressive earnings due to increased demand for military systems and aircraft services, rallying 7% [12][21]. - 3M launched 70 new products in the third quarter, leading to a stock increase of 7.66% as the company returns to innovation [14][15]. - GE Aerospace reported strong numbers in commercial jet engines and aircraft services, with expectations for continued strong performance [16]. - General Motors experienced strong demand for trucks, benefiting from a favorable regulatory environment under the current administration [17]. - Danaher provided a promising quarter, suggesting potential for stronger performance in the upcoming year, resulting in a nearly 6% stock increase [19]. - Coca-Cola's CEO reported larger profits through market share gains and successful new product launches, demonstrating resilience in the face of economic slowdown [20]. Market Dynamics - The concentration of major tech companies in the S&P 500, which accounts for about 35% of the index, raises concerns about market stability and the potential for speculative bubbles [4]. - The perception of a dual economy, with a divide between high-growth tech firms and traditional industries, is prevalent, but recent earnings suggest a more balanced economic landscape [3][5]. - The overall market rally led by companies in the real economy, such as RTX, GE Aerospace, and 3M, indicates positive momentum outside the tech sector [21].