A choppy, indecisive market requires a defensive play or two as a safety net, and a defensive stock worthy of consideration is Newell Rubbermaid (NYSE: NWL).
Newell Rubbermaid doesn't strictly fit the definition of a defensive stock, but its signature product, combined with its overall diversity in the consumer product space, make the stock a worthy consideration.
Newell Rubbermaid's signature product is the food storage container. At first glance, one could argue that U.S. shoppers will buy fewer of these containers as the U.S. economy slows, as it is, strictly speaking, a discretionary purchase. Still, we know from previous belt-tightening periods Americans tend to cut back on dining out. Undoubtedly that means more home prepared meals, and leftovers, which need containers -- a positive trend for Rubbermaid.
Newell Rubbermaid doesn't strictly fit the definition of a defensive stock, but its signature product, combined with its overall diversity in the consumer product space, make the stock a worthy consideration.
Newell Rubbermaid's signature product is the food storage container. At first glance, one could argue that U.S. shoppers will buy fewer of these containers as the U.S. economy slows, as it is, strictly speaking, a discretionary purchase. Still, we know from previous belt-tightening periods Americans tend to cut back on dining out. Undoubtedly that means more home prepared meals, and leftovers, which need containers -- a positive trend for Rubbermaid.
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Chasing Value: Ten stocks for 2010 -- Part 1 
Closing Bell: A six-day rally (AIG, REGN, M, MOT, PALM, RIMM)
