15 Best Defensive Stocks Amid Market Volatility

13. Ingredion Inc. (NYSE:INGR)

Beta: 0.75

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 36

Ingredion Inc. (NYSE:INGR) is a global provider of ingredient solutions, specializing in starches, sweeteners, and plant-based proteins for various applications across the food, beverage, and industrial sectors. The company supports industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and personal care by offering ingredients that enhance texture, taste, and nutritional value.

Ingredion Inc. (NYSE:INGR) converts plant-based materials into high-value ingredients for industries like food, beverages, animal nutrition, and industrial applications. While the market is large, growth remains moderate, driven by changing consumer preferences and dietary trends. From 2021 to 2024, sales grew at a CAGR of over 3%, with a similar outlook for 2025. In 2024, the company generated $1.44 billion in operating cash flow, reinforcing its financial strength and long-term growth potential.

Analyst sentiments on Ingredion (NYSE:INGR) are broadly positive, with a median 1-year upside potential of 20%. However, following its Q4 results, some analysts took a more cautious stance. BMO Capital, for instance, lowered its price target from $147 to $133 while maintaining a Market Perform rating. Although the company’s EPS guidance mid-point aligned with consensus, segment-level performance was underwhelming, with operating income growth projected in the mid-single digits. Despite this, the analyst remains constructive on long-term fundamentals, citing volume recovery, cost-saving initiatives, and growth projects as key strengths.

Similarly, an Oppenheimer analyst trimmed its price target from $178 to $167 but reiterated an Outperform rating. As per him, while Q4 results were strong, the 2025 outlook fell slightly short of expectations, and tempered investor sentiment due to a broad range of possible outcomes. However, the analyst remained optimistic, noting that high pre-report expectations had already been priced in.