In this article, we will be taking a look at the 13 Best Bear Market Stocks to Buy Right Now.
The protection against economic unpredictability is what investors care about most in this erratic market. Defensive stocks exist because nobody wants to be exposed to market risks.
Defensive stocks are, by definition, those that outperform the market while the market is declining. The fact that these companies are dividend-paying and come from industries like utilities, healthcare, or consumer staples unites them.
Michael Wilson, Morgan Stanley’s Chief U.S. Equity Strategist, is one of the most outspoken proponents of defensive stocks during a bear market. As he states,
“Until … the bond market starts to believe the Fed is no longer behind the curve … it will be difficult for equity markets to trade with a more risk-on tone … quality + defensive equities should continue to show outperformance.”
Wilson thinks it’s sensible to switch to traditionally conservative stocks in light of the economic downturn and tariff worries.
With this in mind, let’s dive in and take a look at the best bear market stocks to buy right now.
Our Methodology
For our methodology, we used a stock analysis screener to identify consumer defensive stocks with a price target upside of less than 15%. From this filtered list, we selected 13 stocks and ranked them in ascending order based on the total number of hedge fund holders as of Q2 2025, according to data from the Insider Monkey database.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
Here is our list of the 13 best bear market stocks to buy right now.
13. Beyond Meat, Inc. (NASDAQ:BYND)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 10
Beyond Meat, Inc. (NASDAQ:BYND), founded in 2009 and headquartered in California, is known for its plant-based protein products, including burgers, sausages, and crumbles. The company’s mission focuses on improving human health and environmental impact through alternatives to animal meat. It stands thirteenth on our list among the best bear market stocks.
In September 2025, the firm reported a 19.6% year-over-year decline in Q2 revenue to $75 million and a net loss of $29.2 million. To address ongoing losses, the company plans to cut 6% of its workforce and accelerate transformation efforts, focusing on margin expansion and streamlined distribution.
As part of its strategic shift, the company introduced Beyond Ground, a four-ingredient plant-based mince offering 27g of protein per serving with no cholesterol, GMOs, soy, or gluten. The product launch supports BYND’s broader rebranding as “Beyond”, reflecting a focus on versatile plant proteins for everyday consumption rather than merely mimicking traditional meats. Beyond Meat, Inc. (NASDAQ:BYND)’s upcoming innovations may include lentil sausages, chickpea hot dogs, and post-workout protein options inspired by ancient nutrition models.
12. BRF S.A. (NYSE:BRFS)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 11
BRF S.A. (NYSE:BRFS), a major global producer of poultry, pork, processed foods, and pet food, has strengthened its international presence with a growing focus on alternative proteins and plant-based products.
On September 22, 2025, BRFS merged with Marfrig Global Foods, creating MBRF Global Foods Company S.A. BRFS shareholders received Marfrig shares at 0.8521 ADS per BRF ADS. The merger, approved by Brazil’s antitrust authority without concerns, aims to streamline operations, cut costs, and generate BRL 805 million ($141 million) in annual synergies. Miguel Gularte was named global CEO, while the company’s shares jumped over 18% ahead of the merger, with dividends scheduled for late September.
Despite avian flu and trade volatility, BRF S.A. (NYSE:BRFS) reported 3% revenue growth in Q2 2025 to BRL 15.4 billion. Its pet food segment expanded 8%, and the plant-based division grew 12.5% with new R&D investments. Export diversification added 11 markets, including Argentina and Saudi Arabia, offsetting EU and China challenges.
While leverage remains relatively high at 1.5, merger-driven liquidity improvements have earned positive recognition from rating agencies, positioning MBRF Global Foods for stronger global growth and efficiency.
11. The Beauty Health Company (NASDAQ:SKIN)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 13
The Beauty Health Company (NASDAQ:SKIN), a global leader in aesthetic technologies, designs and markets innovative skincare and wellness products. Its flagship HydraFacial system is renowned for cleansing, extraction, and hydration using proprietary serums, while other offerings include Syndeo for personalized treatments, SkinStylus for microneedling, and Keravive for scalp health.
Recent Q2 2025 results exceeded expectations, fueling renewed investor interest. The business reported revenue of $78.2 million and EPS of $0.03, surpassing the forecasted loss of $0.06, with gross margins holding at 62.8%. Analyst optimism grew, with TD Cowen raising its price target from $2.00 to $2.50, citing CEO-led strategic efforts in device sales and consumables innovation. Jefferies and Roth/MKM similarly upgraded their targets, highlighting improved sales and cost management.
A key driver of growth is The Beauty Health Company (NASDAQ:SKIN)’s focus on provider engagement and innovation. Beauty Health recently launched HydraFacial Advisory Councils and an Ambassador Network to gather feedback from clinic partners and ambassadors. This initiative aims to enhance product development and strengthen brand loyalty, with new booster launches expected later this year targeting mid-60s margins at price points of $220–$345. For investors looking at resilience in consumer health and wellness names, SKIN is increasingly discussed among the best bear market stocks given its steady margins and expanding consumables model.
Strategically, the firm continues to expand its consumable and back-bar product lines, with several rollouts planned for Q4 2025. It has also reinforced its convertible notes via a supplemental indenture, clarifying asset rights and reducing risk for creditors.
