The market has rebounded into positive territory following a significant drop earlier this year, yet the increase appears somewhat uncertain. While investors seek assurance, considerable economic instability persists at present, leading to cautious optimism.
S&P 500
is showing an increase of merely 3%.
But there are many companies displaying extraordinary resilience under pressure, and their stock prices are reflecting that, too.
Coca-Cola
(NYSE: KO)
,
Dutch Bros
(NYSE: BROS)
, and
MercadoLibre
(NASDAQ: MELI)
All of them are performing exceptionally well this year, and I believe these stocks remain strong buys without reservation.
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1. Coca-Cola: The Buffett favorite
This year, Coca-Cola’s stock price has risen by 14%, outperforming the broader market due to its stability, valuation, and dividends. Investors recognize that during times of economic uncertainty, Coca-Cola tends to maintain its performance and provide reliability. The company excels at marketing drinks that consumers enjoy, and since these aren’t considered luxuries, people are more inclined to keep purchasing them even when facing financial pressures. This consistency makes it a safe bet for investors.
strong pricing power
And has managed to raise prices to compensate for increased expenses. Additionally, it’s implementing numerous strategies to boost engagement and drive up sales.
Coca-Cola stands out with its top-tier reputation in business and international recognition—qualities highly valued by investment guru Warren Buffett, who has held this stock longer than any others he owns. This situation offers investors greater insight into what makes Buffett fond of the company. Additionally, Coca-Cola benefits from enhanced protection due to minimal exposure to tariff-related setbacks, as a significant portion of its manufacturing occurs locally.
Coca-Cola
is a Dividend King
Moreover, it has boosted its dividend consistently over the last 63 consecutive years. This makes it one of the most dependable options when it comes to dividend-paying stocks, with scarcely any others boasting a more impressive history. Additionally, it offers an appealing yield of 2.9%, based on today’s share price.
Coca-Cola stock isn’t a perpetual market beater, but it’s an excellent choice for a value stock that pays reliable passive income, and if you’re looking to fill that slot in your portfolio, Coca-Cola is a great candidate.
2. Dutch Bros: The latest entrant in the coffee scene
Dutch Bros is a fairly new coffee shop franchise that’s currently experiencing rapid expansion. It has recently exceeded 1,000 locations, which is roughly twice as many as it had previously.
initial public offering
(IPO) four years ago, and it’s planning to double again by 2020. Longer-term, it sees the opportunity to open 7,000 stores across the country. It recently raised that outlook from 4,000, and as it expands successfully, it could raise that again.
The business employs a strategy tailored for current coffee drinkers. While most of its outlets function solely as drive-thrus, the firm is expanding rapidly and carefully selecting locations to cater to local needs. Its drink offerings come at more affordable prices compared to many rivals, a key factor in today’s market conditions. Additionally, they’re refining their food options to enhance revenue streams. Just introduced, their mobile loyalty scheme has shown impressive outcomes so far.
The shares of Dutch Bros have surged by 32% this year due to ongoing reports of significant growth and rising profitability. In the first quarter of 2025, sales jumped by 29% compared to the previous year, showing a 4.7% rise in comparable store sales. Additionally, the company’s net income climbed from $16.2 million to $22.5 million.
I believe Dutch Bros might not suit very conservative investors due to its risky nature, yet if you can handle some level of risk and have a lengthy investment horizon, it may prove to be an excellent component of your investment mix.
3. MercadoLibre: The global phenomenon
MercadoLibre stands as a dominant force in e-commerce within the Latin American market, boasting steady and substantial growth. The company is broadening its reach across various sectors, leveraging an early adopter’s advantage with most of its offerings, and the potential for further expansion remains enormous.
In the first quarter of 2025, revenues rose by 64% compared to the previous year.
currency neutral
The gross merchandise volume rose by 40% compared to last year, fueled by an increase of 25% in new active buyers, greater involvement from various sectors, and expansion into the supermarket sector, known for its higher frequency of repeated purchases.
E-commerce is still underpenetrated in its operating regions at about 14%. It’s about a decade behind the U.S., which has 29% e-commerce penetration, giving it a long growth runway.
It’s also a leader in fintech services, which promote engagement on the e-commerce platform. Total payment volume increased 72% year over year in the first quarter, and it now has more than 64 million monthly active users, a 31% increase over last year. The credit portfolio, which includes credit cards and other products, increased 75% year over year.
MercadoLibre has an added attraction right now because, as a non-U.S.-based company, it doesn’t have much exposure to tariffs.
The share price of MercadoLibre has increased by 44% this year, making it a great addition to virtually any investment portfolio.
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Jennifer Saibil
has investments in MercadoLibre. The Motley Fool holds stakes in and endorses MercadoLibre. The Motley Fool also endorses Dutch Bros. Additionally, The Motley Fool has a
disclosure policy
.
