Low-beta stocks, which show less volatility than the broader market, are gaining attention as investors seek stability amid rising market uncertainty. Stocks with a beta of 0.9 or lower, often considered less sensitive to market fluctuations, are particularly appealing during times of increased volatility.
These stocks are viewed as safer investments, especially when the broader market shows significant swings. ET Bureau has identified 258 low-beta stocks in the BSE 500, which have been able to outperform the Sensex return over the past year. Around 60% of these stocks have outpaced the index return over the past month, reflecting their ability to weather market volatility and provide stable returns.
Here are the top 10: With a beta of just 0.06, Hindustan Unilever remains a stable stock in turbulent markets. The stock delivered a 5.
3% return in the last month and showed a modest 4.5% return over the past year, underlining its resilience and steady performance. Marico's low beta of 0.
10 makes it a standout performer in terms of stability. Its return of 16.8% over the last month and an impressive 39.
3% return over the past year demonstrate its consistent growth and ability to outperform even in volatile conditions. Britannia Industries, with a beta of 0.19, proves to be a reliable stock in uncertain times.
Over the last month, it saw a return of 12.9%, while over the past year, it delivered a return of 11.6%, reflecting its steady and strong growth trajectory.
United Breweries, with a beta of 0.23, is another example of stability in a fluctuating market. It delivered a return of 6.
4% in the past month and a solid 10.7% return over the past year, showcasing its resilience amid external market pressures. With a beta of 0.
23, Page Industries is slightly more volatile but still offers solid returns. Over the past month, it saw a return of 11.7%, and in the last year, it achieved an impressive 22.
6%, underscoring its potential for growth despite a higher beta. Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences stands out with a very low beta of 0.27.
It experienced a 19.7% return in the last month and a remarkable 53.6% return over the past year, illustrating its exceptional performance in the healthcare sector.
KPR Mill, with a beta of 0.31, has shown impressive resilience. The stock posted a return of 12.
6% in the last month, and over the past year, it achieved a return of 19.2%, reinforcing its strong performance in the textile sector. Narayana Hrudayalaya, with a beta of 0.
31, has proven to be a stable performer. Over the last month, it showed a return of 7.3%, while its 29.
4% return over the past year demonstrates its consistent growth and strength in the healthcare industry. Sun TV Network, with a beta of 0.35, is a solid choice for investors seeking moderate volatility.
It delivered a return of 17.8% in the last month, and its return of 10.9% over the past year highlights its stable performance within the media and entertainment industry.
With a beta of 0.40, Sun Pharma remains a stable stock even in uncertain markets. The stock showed a 4.
7% return over the past month, and its year-long return of 5.3% further solidifies its position as a reliable performer in the pharmaceutical sector. ( Disclaimer : Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own.
These do not represent the views of The Economic Times).
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Stable stocks for uncertain times: Top 10 low-beta outperformers amid volatility

These stocks are viewed as safer investments, especially when the broader market shows significant swings.