3 Stocks to Outsmart the S&P Slide!

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When I was a kid, I loved going down slides.

No matter what was bothering me, it all seemed to fade away with each glide down.

Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the S&P slide!

When the market heads south, those troubles don’t just disappear—they tend to stick around.

Feeling a bit nervous about a recession?

You’re not alone.

But here’s the good news: even in a bear market, there are stocks that not only survive but thrive.

Let's dive into three stocks that have consistently outperformed the S&P 500 during tough times like 2008 and 2022.

Get ready to meet some recession-resistant champs!

General Mills: A Steady Performer When Times Get Tough

When the economy gets shaky, we still need to eat, right?

That's why General Mills (NYSE: GIS) is a solid choice.

As a leader in consumer staples (think cereals and snacks), this company makes products people keep buying, even in a downturn.

After all, no one skips groceries, no matter the market conditions!

In both 2008 and 2022—two of the roughest bear markets in recent memory—General Mills didn’t just survive, it thrived.

With returns of 9% and 28% during those years, this stock outpaced the market by a long shot.

On top of that, General Mills boasts a dividend yield of 3.4%.

And with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 16x, it's attractively priced compared to others in the same sector.

So, if you're looking for stability with a side of growth, General Mills might be your stock-market snack.

Omega Healthcare Investors: Healthy Returns in a Downturn

Next up, we have Omega Healthcare Investors (NYSE: OHI), a REIT that specializes in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities.

Here’s the thing: people don’t stop needing healthcare, even during a recession.

Sure, Omega saw a dip in revenue in 2022 (a 17% drop), but their total return still came in at a respectable 3%.

In 2008, they fared even better with a 7% return.

Plus, Omega offers a healthy 6.5% dividend yield, giving your portfolio an extra boost in down markets.

The aging U.S. population only adds more strength to Omega’s future prospects.

With the growing demand for senior living facilities, Omega is well-positioned for steady long-term growth—even if the economy takes a turn.

Essential Utilities: Can’t Live Without 'Em

Last but not least is Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG).

This company provides essential services—water, wastewater, and natural gas—that people simply can't go without.

And in uncertain times, utilities like these can be a rock for your portfolio.

Although Essential Utilities didn’t wow investors with huge returns in 2008 and 2022 (0% and -9%, respectively), it still outperformed the broader market during those tough years.

Its 3.1% dividend yield also adds some extra cushion.

Another reason this stock shines is its solid agreements with the government, which allow it to charge rates that cover costs and ensure stable returns.

No matter how rocky the economy gets, Essential Utilities keeps the water flowing and the lights on—and that’s a business model you can rely on.

Wrapping It Up: Recession-Proof Your Portfolio

There you have it—three stocks that have shown they can weather the storm when the market takes a nosedive.

Whether you’re stocking up on cereal with General Mills, benefiting from Omega’s growing healthcare demand, or sticking with the basics through Essential Utilities, these companies can help you stay afloat when the S&P 500 is sinking.

Now, I’d love to hear from you!

Which of these stocks do you think would strengthen your portfolio in a downturn?

Or maybe you have another recession-proof favorite?

The key is to take what you’ve learned today and put it into action.

Start by researching these companies and considering how they fit into your overall strategy.

Remember, staying calm and choosing wisely during a bear market can make all the difference.

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