The Smartest S&P 500 Stocks to Buy With $500 Right Now

The article recommends Home Depot and PepsiCo as compelling S&P 500 stocks for long-term investors with $500. Home Depot's stock has fallen 16% over the past year due to sluggish sales from high interest rates and inflation, but its dominant market position and attractive valuation (P/E of 22, down from 25) make it attractive as economic conditions improve. PepsiCo has successfully implemented selective price reductions to boost consumer demand, with first-quarter sales growing 2.6% year-over-year and volume increasing slightly, while trading at a P/E of 22, below its historical average of 26.