Top 5 Consumer Defensive Stocks to Buy Now

4. Dollar General Corporation (NYSE:DG)

Stock Upside Potential: 20.53%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 57

Dollar General Corporation (NYSE:DG) is one of the top consumer defensive stocks to buy now. On April 2, UBS reiterated a Buy rating on Dollar General Corporation (NYSE:DG) with a $168 price target. The positive stance comes on the heels of a meeting with the company’s CEO, COO, and CFO, which affirmed the company’s outlook.

According to UBS, Dollar General is building momentum ahead of the CEO transition in 2027. For starters, the company is experiencing tailwinds from outperformance in non-consumable categories and is expected to benefit from the acceleration of trade activity that began in 2026. In addition, its real estate activities are contributing to comparable store sales, adding 150 to 200 basis points. Consequently, UBS believes the company is on course to achieve its comparable sales outlook of between 2.25% and 2.75%.

Earlier, BofA Securities also reiterated a Buy rating on Dollar General following a store tour and headquarters visit. According to the research firm, the company is enjoying top-line momentum from remodels, non-consumable growth, and digital and delivery expansion. Consequently, it expects the company to achieve an operating margin target of 6% to 7%.

Dollar General Corporation (NYSE:DG) is a leading American variety-store retailer operating over 20,000 stores in 48 states, focusing on providing convenient, affordable access to household essentials. It sells discounted national and private-brand products, including groceries, cleaning supplies, health & beauty items, and seasonal goods, often serving rural communities.