Top 5 Bear Market Stocks to Watch in 2024

In the ever-fluctuating stock market landscape, navigating bear markets can be a nerve-wracking experience for even the most seasoned individual investors. When stock prices plunge, and economic clouds gather, it's natural to question whether investing during such turbulent times is wise. But if you are a savvy investor, you'll recognize that amidst the chaos lies a wealth of hidden opportunities, including the best stocks for bear market investment.

Is it best to buy stocks in a bear market? This burning question has intrigued investors for generations. Contrary to popular belief, a bear market can provide a fertile ground for value-seeking individuals, offering stocks that have been unjustly beaten down but hold immense growth potential. Legendary investors like Warren Buffett have built fortunes by capitalizing on these precise moments.

So, let's review five hand-picked stocks that have proven resilience and profitability. These stocks thrive despite economic uncertainty, making them promising contenders for your portfolio when the market goes into a tailspin. Whether you're a seasoned investor seeking to bolster your position during a downturn or a newcomer eager to capitalize on the best bear market investments, let's explore the untapped potential of bear market stocks and uncover opportunities that can transform uncertainty into financial triumph.

Overview of bear market stocks 

In the unpredictable terrain of a bear market, where fear and uncertainty color market sentiment, consider seeking refuge in stocks that have the potential to weather the storm and emerge stronger. The best bear market stocks are often associated with companies that demonstrate resilience, even when the economy faces headwinds. These companies typically provide essential goods and services that remain in demand, irrespective of market conditions. For instance, consumer staples companies like Walmart are known for offering everyday necessities and tend to maintain a stable revenue stream during bearish phases.

Consistent earnings growth is a key characteristic of the best stocks for a bear market. These companies exhibit a track record of generating profits in challenging market environments, showcasing their ability to endure economic hardships. Additionally, companies with solid financial health, characterized by low debt levels and ample cash reserves, are better positioned to navigate financial uncertainties. 

Dividend-paying stocks hold significant appeal during a bear market. By providing regular dividend payments, these stocks offer a steady income stream that can help offset losses resulting from declining stock prices. Adopting a defensive and diversified investment approach is paramount to safeguard portfolios during a bear market. Diversification involves spreading investments across various industries and asset classes, reducing exposure to any single investment. Defensive stocks, such as those in the healthcare and utilities sectors, tend to display more stability during economic downturns due to the consistent demand for products and services.

Consider bear market exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as a strategic move during market downturns. These ETFs aim to provide returns inversely related to the overall market or specific sectors, acting as a hedge against market declines and potentially offering gains during bearish phases. Conducting thorough research and due diligence is essential when selecting bear market stocks. Analyzing financial statements, evaluating a company's business model, reading previous earning transcripts and assessing long-term growth prospects can help identify stocks with the potential to outperform during challenging market conditions.

The best bear market stocks exhibit a combination of resilience, strong earnings growth and the potential to provide stable dividends. By adopting a defensive and diversified investment approach, considering bear market ETFs and conducting thorough research, you can confidently navigate bear markets and seize opportunities through economic uncertainty.

Importance of investing in bear market stocks

Investing during downturns requires a different approach than a bull market. When stocks decline, it's hard to resist the temptation to time the market and purchase shares when you think they've hit a bottom. But bear markets can be long — major U.S. stock indices reached all-time highs in November 2021 and didn't make new highs until January 2024.

We can't avoid bear markets, and market timing often offers more pain than gain, so how should investors approach these conditions? If you have a long time horizon, bear markets can be an opportunity to buy low on some of the stocks you plan on holding for a decade or more. Dollar-cost averaging with retirement accounts is a good way to keep your emotions in check when investing in turbulent times.

If you have a shorter timeline, you'll want to invest in stocks that can withstand bear markets better than the rest. Unless you're an active day or swing trader, the goal during bear markets isn't to make money but to lose less money than everyone else. Bear market stocks like the ones discussed below all have some type of resiliency that helps them weather broad downturns better than the average stock.

Why invest in bear market stocks?  

Investing in bear market stocks presents a unique opportunity to navigate the challenging waters of a bear market while potentially reaping significant rewards. During a bear market characterized by falling stock prices and negative investor sentiment, identifying the biggest bear stocks can lead to opportunities for substantial gains. When seeking the best stocks for a bear market, you should consider companies with strong resilience and fundamentals. These stocks may be the best stocks to buy during bear market conditions as they have the potential to weather the economic storm and emerge stronger.

One way to gain exposure to bear market stocks is through bear ETFs. Bear ETFs perform well in declining markets, providing inverse returns to the overall market. If you want to invest in a bear market, consider allocating a portion of your portfolio to these bear ETFs for added protection. Bear markets also present attractive valuations for high-quality stocks. These discounted stock prices benefit those seeking the best in bear market conditions. By conducting thorough research and due diligence, you can identify undervalued gems with the potential for long-term growth.

Some investors may adopt a contrarian approach during a bear market, buying when market sentiment is negative. Contrarian investors believe markets tend to overreact to short-term events, providing opportunities to buy stocks at a discount. This strategy may involve buying stocks others sell during a bear market. Dividend-paying stocks can offer stability and income during a bear market. Investing in companies with a history of regular dividend payments can offset some losses incurred during market downturns.

What makes a stock a bear market stock?  

A bear market stock is a term used to describe a stock with specific characteristics that make it resilient and potentially attractive during market downturns. Knowing what to invest in a bear market cycle is an important skill every investor must develop. When navigating the uncertainties of a bear market, you should seek out the best stocks for a bear market, looking for ones that have demonstrated the ability to outperform or withstand challenging economic conditions. Understanding what makes a stock a bear market stock is crucial to protect your portfolio and capitalize on opportunities during market downturns.

• Recession-resistant business model: Bear market stocks often belong to companies with a recession-resistant business model. These companies offer products or services that remain in demand even during tough economic times. Essential goods, such as consumer staples, healthcare and utilities, fall into this category, as most people continue to need these products regardless of the state of the economy.
• Consistent earnings growth: The best stocks to buy during a bear market are those with a history of consistent earnings growth. These companies have proven their ability to generate profits despite challenging market conditions. Steady earnings growth signals that the company is well-managed, has a sustainable business model and can weather economic headwinds.
• Strong financial position: Bear market stocks typically have a strong financial position characterized by low debt levels, ample cash reserves and efficient capital management. A robust financial standing allows these companies to navigate financial hardships and continue operations during market downturns.
• Dividend-paying stocks: You should highly regard dividend-paying stocks during a bear market. Companies that regularly pay dividends provide shareholders with a steady stream of income, which can help offset potential losses resulting from declining stock prices.
• Defensive business sectors: Certain sectors are considered defensive during bear markets due to the stable demand for their products or services. Investors often seek out stocks in industries like healthcare, utilities and consumer staples, as these sectors tend to exhibit more stability during economic downturns.
• Long-term growth potential: Bear market stocks may also possess long-term growth potential. These companies could be industry leaders, demonstrating innovation, adaptability and the ability to seize growth opportunities even in challenging market environments.
• Contrarian investing opportunities: For some investors, bear market stocks present contrarian investing opportunities. A contrarian approach involves buying stocks others sell due to adverse market sentiment. Contrarian investors believe market sentiment tends to overreact to short-term events, creating opportunities to buy undervalued assets.
• Quality management team: A good bear market stock has a quality management team capable of making strategic decisions and navigating the company through economic downturns. Strong leadership ensures a company's resilience during challenging market conditions.
• Diversification and risk mitigation: Investors often seek bear market stocks as part of a diversified portfolio strategy to mitigate risk during market downturns. Including assets with bear market characteristics can act as a defensive hedge against broader market declines.

A stock qualifies as a bear market stock when it exhibits traits that make it resilient, capable of withstanding market challenges and potentially attractive during economic downturns. These stocks often belong to companies with recession-resistant business models, consistent earnings growth, strong financial positions and the ability to pay dividends. The best stocks for a bear market can help you protect your portfolio and seize opportunities in market turbulence. As with any investment, thorough research and careful consideration of individual financial goals and risk tolerance are essential when selecting bear market stocks. Diversifying across various asset classes and industries can further enhance portfolio resilience during economic uncertainties.

Best stocks to buy in a bear market 

When buying stocks in a bear market, you should focus on companies with strong fundamentals, competitive advantages and solid management. Such stocks may weather the downturn and perform well when the market eventually rebounds. Overall, investing in bear market stocks requires careful consideration and analysis. Understanding the risks involved and aligning investments with individual financial goals and risk tolerance is essential. You can increase your chances of success in challenging market conditions by strategically selecting the best stocks to buy during a bear market and diversifying across various assets.

Name	Ticker	Market cap	Industry description
Walmart	NYSE: WMT	$426.3 billion	Retail
AbbVie	NYSE: ABBV	$260.6 billion	Pharmaceuticals
Johnson & Johnson	NYSE: JNJ	$439.3 billion	Pharmaceuticals
T-Mobile US	NASDAQ: TMUS	$158.3 billion	Telecommunications
Equinix	NASDAQ: EQIX	$70.8 billion	Information Technology

Walmart Inc.

Walmart Inc. NYSE: WMT is a retail giant that barely requires an introduction. As one of the world's largest and most well-known companies, Walmart operates a chain of hypermarkets, discount department stores and grocery stores, offering a wide range of products, including groceries, pharmacy items and general merchandise. Its extensive product offerings and vast network of stores have solidified its position as a leader in the retail industry. Walmart's inclusion on our list of best stocks for a bear market stems from its recession-resistant business model. As a retailer of essential goods, Walmart sells products that people need daily, making it less susceptible to economic downturns. During bear markets, when consumer spending may decrease, Walmart's focus on offering essential items positions it to maintain steady demand and revenue.

Another compelling factor is Walmart's earnings growth over the years. The company's strong financial performance, backed by a proven track record of earnings, showcases effective management and a sustainable business model. These consistent earnings are essential for bear market stocks, indicating Walmart's ability to weather market challenges. 

Furthermore, Walmart boasts a solid financial position with significant cash reserves and low debt levels. This financial strength enhances its ability to weather economic storms and continue operations even if the broader economy is downturned. Consider companies with strong financial positions, especially during bear markets when economic uncertainty is prevalent.

Moreover, the company is known for being a dividend-paying stock. Walmart NYSE: WMT regularly distributes dividends to its shareholders, providing you with a steady stream of income, which can help offset potential losses during bear markets. Dividend-paying stocks are highly regarded during economic downturns, as they offer a measure of stability to you. Walmart's retail business falls into the category of defensive business sectors. The demand for groceries and essential goods remains relatively stable during economic downturns, making Walmart's business more resilient in challenging market conditions.

Walmart has demonstrated long-term growth potential, adapting to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Its e-commerce initiatives and focus on digital transformation have contributed to its ongoing growth and competitiveness in the retail landscape. Walmart's recession-resistant business model, consistent earnings growth, strong financial position, dividend-paying status, presence in defensive business sectors, long-term growth potential and proven management team make it a compelling choice if you seek stability and potential opportunities in a bear market.

AbbVie Inc.

AbbVie Inc. NYSE: ABBV is a renowned pharmaceutical company specializing in developing and marketing drugs for various diseases. With AbbVie's strong pipeline of new drugs in development and its diversified portfolio of existing drugs that continue to generate robust sales, AbbVie has established itself as a leader in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. AbbVie goes on our list of best stocks to buy during a bear market due to its recession-resistant business model. 

As a pharmaceutical company, AbbVie operates in a less sensitive sector to economic fluctuations. Regardless of market conditions, the demand for essential medications remains relatively stable, making AbbVie's business model resilient during economic downturns.

The company's consistent earnings further strengthen its position as a bear market stock. AbbVie's ability to deliver earnings growth over time underscores its effective management and successful execution of its business strategy. This track record of solid earnings indicates that AbbVie is well-managed and possesses a sustainable business model, factors highly valued during bear markets. AbbVie's strong financial position adds to its appeal as a bear market stock. The company boasts ample cash reserves and low debt levels, providing financial flexibility to weather potential economic challenges. 

A solid financial standing enhances AbbVie's ability to continue investing in research and development, maintaining its competitive edge even during economic downturns.

AbbVie is a dividend-paying stock, making it an attractive choice for seeking income and stability during bear markets. AbbVie's dividends offer a reliable stream of income, which can help you mitigate potential losses resulting from market declines. From a defensive perspective, the pharmaceutical industry falls into the category of defensive business sectors. People will always require medication and medical treatments, making AbbVie's products indispensable, even during challenging economic conditions.

Moreover, AbbVie's strong focus on research and development highlights its long-term growth potential. The company's pipeline of new drugs positions it to seize growth opportunities and adapt to changing market demands, making it an appealing prospect if you are seeking long-term growth even during a bear market. While AbbVie's inclusion in our list of best stocks for a bear market is based on its strong attributes, it is crucial to remember that all investments carry inherent risks. Diversification and risk mitigation strategies are essential for successful bear market investing.

Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson NYSE: JNJ is a well-established healthcare company renowned for its diversified portfolio of products, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices and consumer health products. With a global presence and a history spanning over a century, Johnson & Johnson has earned a reputation for delivering innovative solutions that improve human health and well-being. 

Johnson & Johnson is on our list of best stocks to buy during a bear market due to its recession-resistant business model. As a healthcare company, Johnson & Johnson operates in a relatively resilient sector during economic downturns. The demand for healthcare products and services remains steady, making Johnson & Johnson less vulnerable to economic fluctuations.

A key factor driving the company's inclusion in our list is Johnson & Johnson's consistent earnings growth. Over the years, the company has demonstrated its ability to deliver consistent earnings growth, showcasing effective management and a sustainable business model. This strong earnings growth track record enhances its appeal as a bear market stock. Furthermore, Johnson & Johnson's solid financial position shows low debt levels. This financial strength gives the company the flexibility to invest in research and development, fund acquisitions and weather potential economic challenges, bolstering its position during bear markets.

Johnson & Johnson's dividend payment is also a well-known advantage for the stock, making it an attractive choice if you seek income and stability during bear markets. The company's commitment to distributing dividends reflects its financial strength and shareholder-friendly approach. 

Johnson & Johnson operates in defensive business sectors. The healthcare industry, especially pharmaceuticals and consumer health products, is considered defensive, as people continue to require medical treatments and essential health products regardless of economic conditions.

Additionally, Johnson & Johnson exhibits long-term growth potential by focusing on innovation and adaptation. The company's ongoing investment strategy in research and development ensures a pipeline of new products and technologies, positioning it to seize growth opportunities even during economic downturns. You may find Johnson & Johnson appealing during bear markets if you seek contrarian investing opportunities. A contrarian approach involves investing in stocks others may sell due to Johnson & Johnson's recent negative market sentiment. Johnson & Johnson's solid fundamentals and long-term growth prospects may attract investors looking for undervalued assets during bearish periods.

Johnson & Johnson's commitment to quality management enhances its appeal as a bear market stock. The company's leadership team has a history of making strategic decisions and navigating the company through challenging market conditions, which can instill confidence during uncertain times. While Johnson & Johnson exhibits several favorable traits, it's essential to remember that all investments carry inherent risks. Diversification and risk mitigation strategies are crucial for successfully managing risk during bear markets.

T-Mobile US Inc.

T-Mobile US Inc. NASDAQ: TMUS is a prominent wireless telecommunications company that has caught our attention as one of the best stocks to buy during a bear market. As a leading player in the wireless industry, T-Mobile US boasts a recession-resistant business model, delivering essential wireless services that people continue to rely on even during challenging economic times. This resilience in its business model makes T-Mobile US an attractive option if you are seeking stability in turbulent markets. 

One of the key reasons for selecting T-Mobile US as a bear market stock is its consistent earnings growth. The company has demonstrated its ability to generate steady earnings over time, a strong indicator of its effective management and sustainable business practices. This track record of consistent growth bolsters its position as a reliable investment choice in uncertain market conditions.

The company is distinguished by T-Mobile's financial position, characterized by prudent debt management. Such financial strength allows the company to navigate economic headwinds and continue investing in strategic initiatives, even amidst a bear market. Furthermore, T-Mobile US is a dividend-paying stock, providing you with a dependable income stream, which can be especially valuable during periods of market volatility.

In the wireless industry, categorized as a defensive business sector, T-Mobile US is a reliable stock option during economic downturns. The demand for wireless services remains relatively stable, making the industry less susceptible to economic fluctuations than other sectors. 

This defensive characteristic adds to T-Mobile US's appeal as a bear market stock. Beyond its immediate strengths, T-Mobile US exhibits significant long-term growth potential. The company is actively expanding its 5G network and attracting new customers, positioning itself for sustained growth in the ever-evolving telecommunications landscape. In addition, T-Mobile US focuses on sustainability, a trait that is becoming more and more important. This forward-looking approach can make seeking opportunities with lasting growth potential appealing, even during a bear market.

Equinix Inc.

Equinix Inc. NASDAQ: EQIX, a global data center company, is a notable addition to our list of best stocks to buy during a bear market. Equinix offers colocation, interconnection and data center services to businesses of all sizes, making it a critical infrastructure provider in the digital era. Several key attributes set Equinix apart as a well-positioned bear market stock. 

One of the compelling reasons for selecting Equinix is its recession-resistant business model. Data centers facilitate seamless digital business operations, regardless of economic conditions. As a result, data center services are not as sensitive to economic fluctuations as other sectors, making Equinix's business model more resilient during a bear market.

Equinix's earnings growth track record contributes to its appeal as a bear market stock. Over the past years, the company has achieved impressive revenue and earnings per share growth. This consistent financial performance showcases Equinix's effectiveness in navigating dynamic market conditions and its commitment to sustainable growth. 

Furthermore, Equinix boasts a solid financial position with low debt levels. This financial strength allows the company to withstand economic challenges and seize growth opportunities even during a bear market. Combining a recession-resistant model and strong financial position bolsters Equinix's reliability as an investment choice during market volatility. Equinix is also a dividend-paying stock. This dividend distribution provides a reliable income stream, even in a bear market, making Equinix an attractive option for those seeking stability in uncertain times.

Considering the future, Equinix exhibits substantial long-term growth potential. The global data center market witnessed a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2022 to 2027, and Equinix positioned itself to capitalize on this growth trajectory. As data usage and digital infrastructure become increasingly crucial for businesses worldwide, Equinix's services stay in high demand, driving its long-term growth. Equinix represents a contrarian investing opportunity, with the stock currently trading below its fair value. You can acquire Equinix shares at a discounted price, presenting the potential for capital appreciation when the market sentiment aligns with the company's intrinsic value. Equinix boasts comprehensive attributes that render it a compelling bear market stock. 

Strategies for identifying resilient stocks

How do individual investors find quality bear market stocks? They find stocks in a bull market through the same methods: fundamental and technical analysis.

Fundamental analysis

To find sturdy stocks for the long haul, you'll need to check "under the hood" of the company's finances. Bear markets can occur in individual stocks or asset classes, but broad declines often involve some type of underlying economic worry. Tech was one of the hardest hit stock sectors in 2021 largely due to interest rates. When money got tight, investors preferred stocks with strong balance sheets, low debt levels and pricing power to maintain margins. 

Technical analysis

Day and swing traders don't pay much attention to earnings reports, margins or debt levels. When trading with a short-term mindset, technical analysis is a must-have tool. Technical indicators like moving averages and relative strength index (RSI) can help traders identify trends and locate areas of support and resistance. 

When a stock trends in a particular direction, support and resistance become important concepts for locating ideal entry and exit points. For example, a trader who buys at a support level and sells at resistance using limit orders will likely maximize any position's profit (or minimize losses).

Sectors and industries to focus on

In times of recession or market turmoil, investors often choose safety and take risk off the table. In this scenario, safe stocks often have strong dividends or low beta, meaning they're less volatile than major market averages. Here are a few stock sectors and asset classes to consider when bear markets strike.

Defensive stocks

Bull market losers often bear market winners, so investors often choose to rotate sectors when market conditions change. Some of stock sectors considered defensive include:

• Utilities
• Consumer staples
• Healthcare
• Telecommunications

Emerging opportunities

Safe sectors are one way to weather the storm in bear markets, but risk-tolerant investors might see a downtrend as an opportunity to buy sectors or assets that have been punished too harshly in a broad decline. Emerging opportunities can occur in new industries or sectors like AI, automation and fintech, or through foreign investment in up-and-coming markets. While risk-averse investors will likely prefer the "stay the course" plan, bear markets often present opportunities for exponential growth, and those seeking risk might consider these bets worth placing.

Fortified portfolios for smart investors 

The carefully selected bear market stocks we've explored offer a shield of resilience and a gateway to potential growth in an uncertain market climate. 

From recession-resistant business models to consistent earnings growth and dividend-paying stocks, these stocks embody qualities that can weather the storm of market volatility. By strategically incorporating these fortified investments, you can confidently navigate the bear market and position yourself for long-term success. 

FAQs

Finding the right investment strategy can be perplexing in times of market turbulence. To shed light on the subject, we've gathered some of the most commonly asked questions about bear market strategies. 

Which stocks to buy in a bear market? 

Choosing the right stocks during a bear market can be challenging. Investors often seek recession-resistant companies with strong balance sheets and a history of consistent earnings growth. You may consider defensive sectors and stocks with long-term growth potential. However, conducting thorough research and considering individual risk tolerance before making investment decisions is crucial.

Is it best to buy stocks in a bear market? 

Buying stocks during a bear market depends on individual investment goals and strategies. Some individual investors see bear markets as an opportunity to buy at discounted stock prices, aiming for potential long-term gains as the market recovers. However, others may opt for a more cautious approach, focusing on preserving capital and waiting for clearer market trends.

How do you make money in a bear market?

Making money in a bear market requires careful planning and risk management. Some strategies include short-selling, investing in inverse ETFs or bear market funds and seeking refuge in defensive asset allocation like gold or bonds. Adopting a diversified portfolio with a mix of investments can help mitigate risk and capitalize on market fluctuations.