Top Picks: 3 Hot Stocks for 2025 Boom or Bust!

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Brace Yourself: The Market's Gonna Dip! Here’s How to Play It Safe and Smart

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ‘round! Imagine you're at a thrilling roller coaster park. The stock market, our beloved ride, has just hit a dizzying high, and now, it’s teetering on the edge, ready to plunge. But fear not! As we anticipate the next wild dip in 2025, let’s buckle up with three rock-solid stocks that will keep your portfolio steady even when the ride gets bumpy.

Bill Gross and Warren Buffett Say: Don’t Buy the Dip, Sell the Peaks!

When the “Bond King” and the “Oracle of Omaha” speak, smart investors listen. Bill Gross recently tweeted, “Investors should stop talking about buying the dip and start asking about selling recoveries.” He’s waving a red flag, warning us of very few “bull stocks” left in the arena, highlighting sectors like pipeline master limited partnerships, banks, and financials.

Meanwhile, Warren Buffett’s moves have been equally cautionary. Berkshire Hathaway sold a whopping $75.5 billion worth of stocks in Q2, nearly halving its stake in Apple. This was a massive sell-off even before the recent market turmoil. When Buffett starts selling his precious Apple stock (again!), it’s worth paying attention. He’s even hinted that Berkshire’s remaining 400 million Apple shares might not be safe from the chopping block. If Buffett is battening down the hatches, perhaps we should too.

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The Safe Trio: Stocks to Shield Your Portfolio

But what to do in the face of such bearish sentiments? Fear not, dear investor. Here are three fortress-like stocks to consider for weathering the 2025 storm:

1. PepsiCo (PEP): The Dividend King with a Fizzy Future

Why PepsiCo? Think about it: No matter how tight things get, people still need their snacks and beverages. PepsiCo, with its vast array of products, is a staple in every household. This American multinational isn’t just a consumer favorite; it’s a dividend juggernaut. PepsiCo recently increased its quarterly dividend by 7% to $1.35 per share, marking its 52nd consecutive increase. That’s over half a century of rewarding shareholders!

The Numbers: For fiscal year 2024, PepsiCo forecasts 4% organic revenue growth and an 8% bump in earnings per share. With such a solid track record, investing in PEP is like having a safety net made of potato chips and soda pop.

2. Waste Management (WM): Turning Trash into Treasure

Why Waste Management? If there’s one thing we can count on, it’s waste. This company, one of the largest in waste disposal and recycling, thrives on the constant need to manage our trash. Waste Management’s business is non-cyclical and recession-proof, making it a stalwart during market downturns.

The Numbers: In Q2 2024, Waste Management reported a revenue increase of 5.5% YOY to $5.4 billion. Their adjusted EBITDA surged by 10.3% to $1.62 billion, with margins climbing to a comfortable 30%. CEO James Fish is on a mission, targeting new acquisitions and investing in renewable energy, ensuring WM continues to turn garbage into gold.

3. Mondelez International (MDLZ): Snacking Through the Slump

Why Mondelez? With brands like Oreo, Ritz, and Chips Ahoy in its arsenal, Mondelez is a heavyweight in the snack industry. These aren’t just snacks; they’re comfort foods people turn to in good times and bad. The company’s strategic pricing and cost discipline have strengthened its margins and liquidity, making it a solid choice for turbulent times.

The Numbers: Despite a rough second quarter, Mondelez increased its quarterly dividend by 11% to 47 cents per share. In 2023, the company’s revenue climbed 14% to $36.01 billion, and EPS soared by 85% to $3.62 per share. That’s what we call impressive resilience!

Conclusion: Ride the Market Waves with Confidence

So, as we brace for what could be a wild market ride in 2025, take a cue from the sages and the stats. Whether it’s the reliable dividends of PepsiCo, the non-cyclical robustness of Waste Management, or the global snack empire of Mondelez, these stocks offer a sturdy shield against the impending storm. Stay smart, stay safe, and remember: In the world of investing, it’s not just about riding the highs but weathering the lows with grace and a little bit of humor.

Summary

In this post, we've explored how industry giants like PepsiCo, Waste Management, and Mondelez International can provide stability and security for your portfolio amid market volatility. These companies, with their strong financials and essential products, are poised to help you navigate through potential downturns in 2025.

What steps are you taking to prepare your portfolio for a potential market dip? Do you have any go-to stocks that provide you with peace of mind during turbulent times?

Take what you’ve learned today and start fortifying your investment strategy. Consider adding these reliable stocks to your portfolio to ensure you’re prepared for whatever the market throws your way.

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More Info

PepsiCo Declares Quarterly Dividend

WM Announces Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023 Earnings

Mondelez: 11% dividend increase with quarterly results