Amidst ongoing stock market volatility, several companies have demonstrated resilience, historically performing well even when the broader market struggles. CNBC Pro identified stocks like Kroger, Southern Company, and Cboe Global Markets that have a track record of outperforming during S&P 500 downturns, based on rigorous screening of past performance and analyst price targets.
Kroger, a grocery giant, and Southern Company, a utility provider, have shown consistent positive returns during market dips. Cboe Global Markets, in the financial technology sector, has also proven to be a strong performer in challenging market conditions, with promising upside potential according to analysts.
Navigating Market Volatility: Stocks That Shine When the Broader Market Falters
Even as the stock market experiences turbulence, certain companies have demonstrated a remarkable ability to withstand downturns. In recent times, the S&P 500 has faced pressure, with Treasury bond yields climbing amidst concerns over national debt. However, not all stocks are created equal when the market dips. CNBC Pro has identified stocks that have historically performed well during the S&P 500's weakest periods.
Through an analysis of the past three years, CNBC Pro screened for stocks that consistently showed positive returns on days when the S&P 500 experienced significant declines. The selection criteria included stocks that were positive at least 50% of the time during these downturns, exhibiting positive average and median performances. Furthermore, only those with at least 5% upside potential based on consensus analyst price targets made the cut.
Kroger (KR)
Kroger, the prominent grocer, has proven to be a resilient performer, rising nearly 70% of the time on days when the S&P 500 is down sharply. Despite a recent dip in its 2026 performance, analysts anticipate a rebound, with consensus price targets forecasting a gain of over 26%.
Kroger's 1-year performance chart.
Southern Company
Southern Company, a utility stock, has also shown its defensive qualities, rising in 63% of sessions when the broader market index experienced considerable declines. Notably, this stock achieved the highest median gain among the selected group. While its 2026 performance has lagged the S&P 500, analysts expect nearly a 10% jump over the next 12 months.
Cboe Global Markets
Cboe Global Markets, a financial market technology company, stood out with a remarkable 75% positive performance during significant S&P 500 downturns. This stock is on track for its fourth consecutive winning year, having already jumped nearly 20% in 2026. The average analyst projection suggests an additional 6% rise over the next year.
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