Consumer staples gain momentum as utilities lose safe-haven appeal

Consumer staples are gaining momentum, driven by broad-based optimism and positive EPS revisions for companies like ADM, Darling Ingredients, and UNFI. Conversely, the utilities sector is under strain as higher interest rates, AI-driven capital expenditures, and climate liabilities erode their traditional safe-haven appeal. Additionally, survey data highlights generational strategy shifts, revealing distinct differences between Gen Z and boomers regarding risk tolerance, asset preferences, and trading habits.

Staples show strength: EPS revisions for companies like ADM, Darling Ingredients, and UNFI point to broad-based optimism in consumer staples. Utilities under strain: Higher rates, AI-driven capex, and climate liabilities are eroding utilities’ traditional safe-haven status. Generational strategy shifts: Survey data shows Gen Z and boomers differ on risk tolerance, asset preferences, and trading habits.