The Vanguard Utilities Index Fund ETF (VPU) has consistently outperformed the S&P 500 during the last two of three recessions this century by focusing on essential utility stocks like water, electric, and gas services. These defensive stocks provide steady cash flow, reliable dividends (2.52% yield), and minimal competition due to their monopolistic nature. While the S&P 500 suffered significant losses during the 2007-2008 and 2022 recessions, VPU showed resilience with smaller declines or gains. The growing demand from AI data centers may further boost utilities, making VPU a strong choice for investors seeking stability and moderate growth during economic downturns.
In April, grocery prices rose 0.5% and restaurant menu prices increased 0.7%, marking the largest monthly gains since late 2025. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed headline inflation at 3.8% year-over-year, the highest since 2023, driven largely b...
Walmart is laying off or relocating about 1,000 corporate employees as part of a strategy to simplify its operating structure and unify its business platforms across Walmart U.S., Sam's Club, and international markets. The company aims to reduce over...
Walmart is cutting or relocating about 1,000 corporate workers as it restructures its technology and product teams to streamline operations and boost efficiency. The changes come under new leadership focused on accelerating AI and automation, with af...
Forbes published its first-ever list of the 100 largest family businesses in the U.S., ranked by revenue. These companies, spanning 31 states, include well-known brands like Walmart, Marriott, and Estee Lauder, and represent a significant part of the...
Walmart plans to cut or relocate about 1,000 corporate jobs as part of an effort to consolidate its global technology and product teams for greater efficiency. This move follows the hiring of Daniel Danker to lead global AI acceleration and aims to r...
