Investors looking to diversify their portfolio have a range of options in FMCG, cyclical stocks, and specialty retail stores. FMCG stocks like Walmart, Dollar Tree, Sysco Corporation, The Kroger Co., Monster Beverage Corporation, General Mills, Philip Morris International, Mondelez International, and Colgate-Palmolive Company offer potential investment opportunities [259e551b]. These companies have a strong presence in the FMCG sector and are favored by hedge funds and elite investors [259e551b]. On the other hand, cyclical stocks like 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Kohl's Corporation, American Eagle Outfitters, Airbnb, United Parcel Service, Expedia Group, The TJX Companies, Lowe's Companies, and Costco Wholesale Corporation are also worth considering [b5d31f9c]. These stocks are influenced by the economic cycle and tend to perform well during periods of economic growth [b5d31f9c]. As the US economy experiences recent growth and investor confidence rises, particularly in cyclical stocks, it may be an opportune time to invest [b5d31f9c]. Additionally, specialty retail stores offer another avenue for investment. Some top names in specialty retail operating in the United States include Ulta Beauty, Nike, and Apple [9b6855ad]. Specialty retail stores focus on a specific product category or service and target a specific market segment. They offer a deep and comprehensive selection of products within their niche, cater to their target customers' specific needs and preferences, and often build strong brand identities and customer loyalty [9b6855ad]. Investors can gain exposure to specialty retail opportunities by buying individual shares of specialty retail stores, investing in consumer discretionary ETFs, or considering commercial real estate investment trusts (REITs) that own or operate specialty retail properties [9b6855ad]. It is important to conduct thorough financial due diligence, evaluate brand strength and differentiation, assess financial performance and growth potential, consider industry trends and market opportunity, and determine valuation and investment thesis when evaluating specialty retail brands for investment [9b6855ad]. Building a diversified specialty retail investment portfolio involves diversifying investments across niche markets, balancing risk and reward, proactively managing the portfolio, and continuously learning and growing [9b6855ad]. However, it is crucial for investors to conduct thorough research and analysis before making any investment decisions [259e551b] [b5d31f9c] [9b6855ad].
Contrarian investors may want to consider the best stocks for a volatile market. Costco, Exelon, PepsiCo, Genuine Parts, Albertsons, Five Below, and Exxon are highlighted as potential options [479af7eb]. These stocks are chosen based on factors such as their ability to weather economic downturns, relevance in the current market, and consumer behavior [479af7eb]. Costco benefits from a higher-income customer base, while Exelon's natural monopoly in the utility sector provides stability. PepsiCo is well-positioned due to the trade-down effect, and Genuine Parts benefits from the increasing age of vehicles on the road. Albertsons, as a supermarket operator, offers a long-term opportunity despite short-term negative trends. Five Below fills a niche for consumers looking to save money without compromising quality. Finally, Exxon's relevance in the face of high electric vehicle costs and economic pressures makes it a potential long-term investment [479af7eb]. These stocks are seen as resilient options in a volatile market.
The number of cyclical consumer companies with top AAA ratings has increased from 61 to 73 since November. Among the US cyclical consumer businesses with top ratings in March are Thor Industries, a maker of motor homes, and Tractor Supply Company, an eclectic US retail chain. The Cheesecake Factory, a US restaurant chain, also received a top rating. The rise in ratings is attributed to hopes of a soft landing in the US economy [c7aee43f].
U.S. retail sales for June were solid, indicating a strong economy; Costco's shares climbed after a membership fee increase; Target received an upgrade from Citi, reflecting optimism about profit margins; Dick's Sporting Goods raised its full-year earnings guidance; Retail sales in June remained unchanged, countering concerns about a recession; Retail sales in May were higher than initially estimated; Retail sales in June saw a 2.3% increase year-on-year; Costco's membership fee hike is part of its strategy to augment revenue; Target's rating was lifted at Citi, with a new price target; Dick's Sporting Goods reported a significant growth in comparable sales and revised its full-year guidance; Shane Neagle did not hold any positions in the mentioned securities [3a2b71bf].