What are "sin stocks" and why do investors consider them?

Sin stocks are shares in companies that operate in industries some consider ethically questionable or socially responsible investments, primarily alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and defense. Investors often consider these stocks because they tend to perform well regardless of economic conditions, as demand for these products and services remains relatively constant even during recessions. This characteristic makes them potentially valuable as portfolio stabilizers during market downturns.

Why are sin stocks considered "recession-resistant"?

Sin stocks are considered recession-resistant because they sell products and services with inelastic demand – meaning consumers continue to purchase them regardless of economic conditions or even price increases. For example, tobacco users tend to maintain their habits during economic downturns, alcohol consumption often remains stable or even increases during difficult times, and gambling activities persist as people seek entertainment or the possibility of financial windfalls. This consistent consumer behavior leads to more stable revenue streams for these companies compared to other sectors during economic contractions.

What does "Market Cap" mean when looking at these stocks?

Market capitalization (Market Cap) is the total dollar value of a company's outstanding shares. It's calculated by multiplying the current share price by the total number of shares available in the market. Market cap helps you understand the company's size: large-cap companies ($10+ billion) are typically more established and stable; mid-cap ($2-10 billion) may offer growth potential with moderate risk; and small-cap (under $2 billion) might present higher growth potential but with increased risk. When comparing sin stocks, market cap helps you assess each company's relative size and position within its industry.

What is "Consensus Recommendation" and how should I use it?

Consensus Recommendation reflects the combined opinion of multiple financial analysts regarding whether investors should buy, hold, or sell a particular stock. It's typically presented as a rating (like "Strong Buy," "Buy," "Hold," "Sell," or "Strong Sell") or as a numerical score. This metric helps you understand what professional analysts collectively think about a stock's future prospects. However, it's important to use it as just one of many factors in your decision-making process, as analysts can sometimes be wrong or have conflicts of interest. For sin stocks specifically, analyst recommendations can help identify which companies might be best positioned within these traditionally defensive sectors.

How might the expanding legalization of sports betting affect gaming stocks in this group?

The expanding legalization of sports betting creates significant growth opportunities for gaming companies in this group. As more states and countries approve online sports wagering and iGaming, companies like PENN and GAMB can access entirely new markets and customer bases. This regulatory shift allows these businesses to expand their digital footprint, increase user engagement, and develop new revenue streams beyond traditional casino operations. The sports betting boom may lead to higher growth rates for these companies compared to their historical performance, potentially making them more dynamic investments within the traditionally stable "sin stock" category.

15 handpicked stocks

Sin Stocks

This carefully selected group of stocks represents leading companies in alcohol, tobacco, and gaming industries. These companies tend to perform steadily regardless of economic conditions, making them valuable additions to your portfolio during uncertain times.

Han Tan | Market Analyst

Published on June 17

Top Picks from This Group

Here are a few of the assets in this group. Create an account to unlock the full list.

Altria Group Inc.

Current price

$65.75

As a leading U.S. producer of iconic cigarette and oral tobacco brands, it is a cornerstone of the traditional tobacco industry.

Philip Morris International, Inc.

Current price

$157.91

This company is a global leader in the tobacco market, selling well-known cigarette brands and investing in smoke-free alternatives worldwide.

British American Tobacco p.l.c.

BTI

Current price

$52.57

It represents a major global player in the tobacco sector with a diverse portfolio of combustible and next-generation nicotine products.

Diageo plc

DEO

Current price

$96.35

Constellation Brands Inc.

STZ

Current price

$140.51

Brown Forman Corp.

BF.B

Current price

$27.68

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12 Month Growth Potential

Use the growth calculator to see how much investing in these assets could return over one year, based on aggregated analyst sentiment provided by Refinitive Ltd.

If you invested across these assets:

≈

In 12 months it might be worth:

$1,000.00

+33.55%

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About This Group of Stocks

Our Expert Thinking

These "sin stocks" represent companies with non-cyclical consumer demand in alcohol, tobacco, and gaming. They typically maintain steady sales even during economic downturns, as customers continue to purchase these products regardless of broader market conditions.

What You Need to Know

Companies in this group often generate strong, consistent cash flows and many pay reliable dividends. The portfolio includes established global brands with dominant market positions across various vice industries, offering potential stability during market volatility.

Why These Stocks

Each company was selected for its leadership position and strong performance within its respective industry. Current growth catalysts include expanding legalization of sports betting and online gaming, creating new revenue opportunities for many companies in this group.

Group Performance Snapshot

33.55%

Average 12 Month Profit

On average, analysts expect assets in this group to grow 33.55% over the next year.

12 of 15

Stocks Rated Buy by Analysts

12 of 15 assets in this group are rated Buy by professional analysts.

Source: Analyst sentiment is provided by Refinitiv Ltd, a global leader in financial market data with over 40k business clients. Refinitiv Ltd is an independent third party to Nemo. This is not advice.

Why You'll Want to Watch These Stocks

🛡️

Recession-Resistant Returns

Sin stocks typically maintain sales during economic downturns, as consumers continue to purchase these products regardless of their financial situation, providing portfolio protection when other sectors struggle.

💰

Steady Dividend Income

Many companies in this group generate strong, reliable cash flows and have histories of consistent dividend payments, making them attractive options for income-focused investors.

🚀

Sports Betting Boom

The rapid legalization of sports betting and online gaming across the U.S. and globally is creating massive new market opportunities for several companies in this collection.

Get the full story on this Basket. Read our detailed article on its risks and potential.

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