If I Could Only Buy and Hold 1 Stock Heading Into the Eye of a Stock Market Storm, This Would Be It

Costco is recommended as a defensive stock choice during potential market downturns. The retailer demonstrates resilience through strong same-store sales growth (6.7% Q4, 6.6% annually), expanding operating profits (13.8% Q4 growth), high membership renewal rates (89.8%), and consistent warehouse expansion (25 new locations added). Despite economic headwinds including inflation and rising interest rates, Costco's value proposition and membership model continue to attract and retain customers.