When markets get turbulent, it’s easy to focus on what’s falling. But often, the most interesting stories are about what’s rising. As the financial world reacts to a perfect storm of increasing tariffs, inflation anxiety, and global uncertainty, several assets, sectors, and stocks defy the downward trend—offering new opportunities for sharp-eyed investors.
At AvaTrade, we believe in helping traders look beyond the headlines. So here’s a closer look at the bright spots standing out amidst the chaos.
Health Stocks Deliver a Dose of Strength
The health insurance sector is among the most apparent winners in recent trading sessions. Stocks like Humana and UnitedHealth posted substantial gains—+10.69% and +5.4%, respectively—after news that the U.S. government would increase payments to Medicare Advantage plans. Even CVS Health jumped nearly 6% after raising its full-year outlook and announcing a new CFO. Predictive revenue from government programs is giving investors something to believe in in a market starved for clarity.
Microsoft Reclaims Its Throne
Meanwhile, in the tech space, Microsoft has quietly overtaken Apple to become the world’s most valuable public company—again. The shift follows Apple’s steep 23% drop, primarily driven by its exposure to China amid President Trump’s sweeping tariffs. More globally diversified and seen as relatively insulated from tariff risks, Microsoft has emerged as a beacon of stability in big tech.
Bitcoin Holds the Line
While stocks have been hammered—over $5 trillion wiped from the S&P 500 alone—Bitcoin has held up remarkably well. Down just 26% from recent highs, BTC has shown surprising resilience. In previous crises, Bitcoin has seen drawdowns as large as 70%, but this time, the digital asset seems to be solidifying its role as a hedge against traditional market turmoil.
Strategic Stock Picks Still Winning
Not every company is at the mercy of macro headwinds. Some, like Broadcom, are leaning into their strengths—authorising a $10 billion share buyback program that signalled confidence and increased shares. Grab Holdings also caught analyst attention, with Citi reaffirming its Buy rating and projecting a 63% upside, thanks to strong earnings and a bold AI roadmap.
Marvell Technology surged after announcing a $2.5 billion asset sale to Infineon, reinforcing its strategic focus. Defence stocks like Lockheed Martin rose on the back of a proposed $1 trillion defence budget. CrowdStrike, while down overall, managed to notch a rare gain as it became a play on rising digital nationalism.
Bonds Bounce Back
In times of uncertainty, investors often flock to safety—and bonds are back in demand. As equity markets falter, yields on U.S. Treasuries and other global government bonds rise, increasing bond prices. The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield recently hit 4.285%, while UK gilts saw their 30-year yield spike to 5.35%, the highest since 1998. Funds like SHY and overseas bond trackers are gaining traction as a flight to safety continues.
Safe-Haven Currencies Strengthen
It’s not just gold and bonds getting attention—safe-haven currencies are also on the move. The Japanese Yen (JPY) and Swiss Franc (CHF) have strengthened recently as global investors seek stability amid rising trade and geopolitical tensions. These currencies are historically viewed as “go-to” options during market stress, and current sentiment only reinforces that trend.
Volatility Can Equal Opportunity
It’s tempting to sit out during volatile times—but history shows some of the best trades are made in the mess. Whether it’s rotating into value, watching what smart money is doing, or seizing short-term momentum via tactical ETFs, there’s no shortage of action.
At AvaTrade, we’re here to help you navigate the noise and stay one step ahead. Want to see what else is moving and how top traders are adapting?
