12 Undervalued Defensive Stocks for 2026

10. Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC)

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) is one of the best undervalued defensive stocks for 2026. On March 13, BTG Pactual initiated coverage of Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) with a Neutral rating and set a $40 price target. In its fiscal Q4 and full year 2025 financial results, the company reported net sales of $18.5 billion for the year, with a consolidated GAAP operating income margin of 8.7%. GAAP net income came up to $1.1 billion, with a GAAP EPS of $4.54, adjusted net income of $1.2 billion, and adjusted EPS of $5.17. For the fourth quarter, net sales came up to $4.5 billion, with a consolidated GAAP operating income margin of 4.5%.

Management reported that Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation’s (NASDAQ:PPC) U.S. Fresh portfolio benefited from strong demand across retail and foodservice, with volume from Key Customers in both Case Ready and Small Bird rising above the industry averages. Management also reported that Big Bird drove improvements through enhanced yields, mix, and cost efficiencies.

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) is involved in the processing, production, marketing, and distribution of fresh, frozen, and value-added chicken and pork products to retailers, distributors, and foodservice operators. The company’s operations are divided into the following geographical segments: U.S., Europe, and Mexico.