State Street Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF

XLU

Market cap $25B

Every major AI buildout has needed one thing before the servers could run: reliable power.

Most income investors are unknowingly missing two of the best-performing sectors of the past decade. These two investments fill that gap while still paying 10–13% yields. They also benefit from superior tax efficiency and skilled management teams.

Rising oil prices and Middle East tensions are squeezing household finances and weakening consumer sentiment, steering investors toward defensive ETFs.

U.S. equities continue to languish as the conflict in Iran dominates the market narrative. With no end in sight, investors have a few different ways to approach portfolio positioning heading into Q2.

The Gabelli Utilities Trust is a solid option for one who is looking for a defensive option. While GUT is a BUY, XLU has a better overall performance profile and deserves a rating of Strong Buy. GUT's standard deviation and expense ratio are drags on its overall rating, keeping it from being the preferred option.

Recession risks and macro headwinds cloud bullish forecasts. ETFs may help balance risk while staying invested.

ETFs focused on consumer staples, utilities, low volatility, and high-quality metrics should bounce back, says one strategist.

Are stagflation risks returning as oil-driven inflation rises amid Middle East tensions? Here's how ETFs can help defend portfolios.

With U.S. budget deficits and already elevated debt, the ongoing Middle East war could worsen the fiscal outlook, making defensive ETF strategies worth considering for stability.

Discover two high-yielding securities that offer a powerful combination of current income and long-term inflation protection. Learn why these specific investments are uniquely positioned to thrive in an AI-driven economy. Explore the robust distribution growth and defensive characteristics that make these "money machines" ideal for early retirees.