10 Defensive Dividend Stocks To Buy During Market Sell Off

2. Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT)

Target Corporation is a general merchandise retailer company in the U.S. The company provides apparel, shoes, jewelry, beauty and personal care, accessories, cleaning, and other products. The stock’s 4.28% dividend yield continues to draw income-oriented investors’ attention.

After a disappointing Q3, the company reported its FY2024 results last month. Though sales were slightly less than the previous year, the company was able to reduce its net debt. This decline in net sales was due to low sales in the clothing, household, and electronics segment in the first half of 2024. Despite weak sales, the company continues to grow its gross margins.

Management expects sales to remain stable in 2025 regardless of a slowdown in consumer spending. Operating margins are expected to improve.

After a 36% decline in a year, the dividend yield is attractive and offers an opportunity for income investors willing to take exposure to the retail business.