15 Best Defensive Stocks Amid Market Volatility

4. The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG)

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Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 79

The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) is a global consumer goods leader with a vast portfolio of brands, including Tide, Pampers, Gillette, and Head & Shoulders, which are well known and trusted by millions of households worldwide. It operates in over 180 countries and benefits from strong brand recognition and consumer loyalty.

In a move that supports the investment case for the company, Erste Group analyst Stephan Lingnau upgraded the company’s rating to Buy from Hold, in a report on March 17. The analyst expects the company to exceed its guided EPS growth rate, and believes the stock is attractively valued compared to the sector.

Earlier on February 20, Wells Fargo analyst Christopher Carey had also reaffirmed his Buy rating on The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) with a price target of $185. While short-term inventory fluctuations remain a factor, the analyst highlighted the strength of U.S. consumer demand and the company’s ability to keep its EPS within the range of its FY 2025 guidance, assuming a recovery in inventory re-orders.

Looking ahead to FY 2026, the Wells Fargo analyst highlighted that The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) has given a positive outlook, with the potential to align with its growth strategy. This optimism was backed by strong global trends and market share gains across key regions. Additionally, the analyst believes the company can manage external factors such as foreign exchange and commodity prices well which further supported the Buy rating.