The 2012 stock market has been a crazy ride for long-term investors, and new investors have either had a great or terrible year. The best stocks for 2012 have been in some unexpected sectors despite the current state of the economy, and some companies that have been steady in the past have remained this way over the year.
Americans are all about saving money, especially these days; this has lead to a boom in companies that cater to those looking to save money. Discount retailers, fast food establishments, and home improvement industries have all seen good turn around’s this year.
TJX Company, the parent company of retailers T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, is one such company that has had a great year in stocks for 2012. The company has seen record revenue as consumers look to more affordable clothing options. While larger and more expensive clothing retailers such as Macy’s suffer, TJX remains strong. The company has been strangely consistent this year, and is speculated to do the same as it expands into other countries.
Wal-Mart is thriving in today’s economy as well, mostly due to the same circumstances that TJX is thriving. The difference is that Wal-Mart sells more than just clothing, and cheap electronics and food are at the top of most consumers’ shopping lists.
One of the biggest surprises for investors over the past two years has been Yum Brands, the owner of Kentucky Fried Chicken and Taco Bell. Fast food is as strong in the states as ever, but the real strength of Yum Brands lies in China. Kentucky Fried Chicken is the strongest Western-owned fast food establishment in China, and as the country continues to urbanize and propser, Yum Brands is set to grow for some time.
Last but not least is Lowe’s, the home renovation giant. While the housing market is still at a low point, home improvement retailer Lowe’s has stayed strong through providing what consumers need in order to stay in their current homes longer. Though the housing market is looking up, Americans are continuing to be less concerned with moving into new homes — which leads to Lowe’s staying strong and remaining one of the best stocks for 2012.