XLU

The Preferred Defensive Sector – Utilities, Not Consumer Staples

While some investors might be expecting consumer staples to rebound and become the preferred defensive sector of choice, utilities still look like the top dog.

3 Hidden Risks of Dividend Stock Investing

Dividend stock investing seems like a low-risk way to invest, but unwitting investors can run into trouble with these hidden traps.

3 Utility Stocks For Retirement Income Investors

If you're looking for retirement income, don't overlook utility stocks. Here are three of the best ways to add them to your portfolio.

Don’t Complain About This Boring Market. Prepare.

The slow but steady rise of the markets into the low-volume summer months is lulling many investors to sleep. But success favors the ready.

These Hidden Risks in Your Dividend Stocks Could Ruin You

Dividend stocks are touted as low-risk, low-volatility plays that are certain profit generators. But dividend stocks can be riskier than you think.

Buyer Beware – Utility Stocks Are a Bad Play Right Now

I've made lots of shrewd buys in the utility stocks space, but I'm not holding a single one right now. Wait for valuations to fall back to earth before dipping a toe in.

3 Reasons the Selloff Isn’t Finished

Before you get too excited about stocks again, consider these 3 signs that suggest the market selloff isn't finished.

2 Charts That Warn the Bull Market May End in 3-9 Months

These ratio charts could be the first signs that the cyclical bull is coming to an end.

Traders Opting for Safe Havens and Cheap Insurance

A better safe than sorry attitude has resulted in a flight to bonds and defensive sectors, as well as higher option premiums.

Utility Stocks: There’s No Need to Chase This Rally

Utility stocks have outperformed so far this year, but the move isn't based in fundamentals. Don't rush into XLU and the utilities sector just yet.

Healthcare Stocks: No Longer a Sure Thing

Healthcare stocks have outperformed in recent years, but investors need to be selective with valuations that now are at richer levels.

Caution! The Facts They Are a-Changin’

Credit spreads widened last week, a possible signal of credit weakness. Caution is advised in your market outlook.

Why Utilities Have Underperformed the S&P Since 2008

Utility stocks have underperformed the S&P 500, and though the sector has some impressive dividend yields, investors should be cautious if they invest

Why Dividend Stocks Could Bounce Off the Mat in 2014

Higher-yielding dividend stocks lagged in 2013, but income plays could revive in the year ahead now that the Fed has finally started tapering.

3 Funds to Buy for Retirement Income

This pair of ETFs and a mutual fund provide meaningful income, allowing you to plan for retirement knowing you'll have reliable sources of cash.

What Valuations Are Trying to Tell Investors Right Now

Based on current valuations, the defensive consumer staples, utilities and healthcare sectors remain expensive. Where can you find better opportunities?

3 Doomed Investments to Avoid in 2014

Avoiding bad investments can be as important as picking good ones. Investors should stay clear from these doomed investments in 2014.

For the Rally to Continue, These 3 Sectors Need to Rebound — and Soon

The broader market remains near record territory, but the XLF, XLU and XLP are making lower highs. Here's what that means for the rally's sustainability.

Are SPDRs Truly Your Best Sector Bet?

SPDRs are usually investors' first choice for sector ETFs, but an equal-weighted approach has provided a better "pure play" -- and higher historical returns.