By Kurt Feuerman and Robert Milano
With volatility rising, many equity investors are thinking proactively about downside protection. But traditional safe havens may not do the job. Defensive equity positions can be found today in surprising places - like the energy sector.
After nine years of S&P 500 Index gains, investors are becoming increasingly nervous about the bull market's durability. Rising interest rates, a return of inflation and geopolitical concerns have fueled volatility.
Rethinking Defensive Exposures
In the past, when investors sensed cracks in the market's foundation, they flocked to more defensive sectors, like consumer