15 Best Defensive Stocks Amid Market Volatility

11. Exelon Corp. (NASDAQ:EXC)

Beta: 0.51

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47

Exelon Corp. (NASDAQ:EXC) is the largest regulated utility company in the United States, delivering electricity and natural gas to over 10.5 million customers through its subsidiaries. With a focus on clean energy production, the company operates one of the largest portfolios of renewable and natural gas assets.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, the company reported adjusted operating earnings of $0.64 per share, up from $0.60 per share in the same quarter of the previous year. For the full year, adjusted operating earnings reached $2.50 per share, an increase from $2.38 in 2023. Looking ahead, the company has provided guidance for adjusted operating earnings in 2025 to be between $2.64 and $2.74 per share, reflecting an 8% year-over-year growth.

Exelon Corp. (NASDAQ:EXC) has also raised its planned capital expenditures by 10%, allocating $38 billion over the next four years to improve grid reliability and meet customer needs. This investment is expected to result in a 7.4% growth in the rate base, which represents the assets on which the company generates revenue. Additionally, the company anticipates an operating EPS compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5–7% from 2024 to 2028.

The company’s increased investments and stable, regulated business model position it for growth while maintaining its defensive appeal. Exelon Corp. (NASDAQ:EXC) continues to stand out as a dependable option within the utility sector.