Consumer defense is the protection of consumers from unfair and unjust practices. This concept originated in the ancient world. The earliest forms of consumer protection were weights and measures. Today, consumer rights are protected by government regulation, laws and courts. In many cases, it is the law that redresses a consumer’s harm and provides compensation.
Defensive companies, like those that manufacture products that are essential to life, are often a good choice for investors. These companies generate steady earnings and stable sales even during economic downturns. They provide a reliable source of income, and they tend to pay dividends. Investors should keep in mind that defensive firms may face restrictions from the government. For example, the United States Food and Drug Administration is one of the nation’s leading consumer protection regulatory agencies.
A defensive company is usually found in a specific industry, such as healthcare, food and beverage manufacturers, or utility companies. These industries produce the same products for decades. Unlike the more cyclical stocks in the stock market, a consumer defensive company has been around for a long time and will typically remain stable throughout economic booms and busts.
Several consumer defensive sectors are particularly interesting during periods of uncertainty. Utility companies and luxury goods are examples of such industries. During downturns, demand for discretionary goods can detract from a defensive company’s profits. However, during a bull market, these stocks tend to grow. That’s because the demand for basic goods and services is usually stable.
Another key benefit of purchasing defensive stocks is the stability that they offer to an investment portfolio. The companies themselves are well-established, have brand recognition, and have high barriers of entry. Although they can be difficult to invest in, they are a solid way to ensure that your investment portfolio is safe in times of financial turmoil.
During the past decade, the consumer defensive sector has demonstrated strong revenue growth. These companies usually outperform non-defensive stocks, and they can be a good choice for investors who are concerned about the financial health of their portfolio.
One of the most common examples of a defensive company is McDonald’s. Its iconic brand name has earned the company a reputation for providing high quality foods and services to millions of people. Its stable business model has also helped it survive numerous downturns in the years since the Great Recession.
Other examples of defensive companies are Procter & Gamble Company, American Home Loan Counselors, and Zinly, LLC. These companies specialize in beauty, grooming, and healthcare products.
When the economy is at its peak, consumer staples and utility companies are some of the best performing stocks in the stock market. The reason is simple: these businesses are not subject to the downturns that other companies are.
There are several other factors that contribute to the success of consumer defensive stocks. These include their relatively low volatility, brand recognition, and large scale. Furthermore, they are rarely put on sale. Buying these companies during a boom can help investors achieve a more consistent income.
