Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund Price & Performance (XLP)

Kimberly-Clark, a major consumer staples company, cut its full-year profit growth forecast due to rising supply chain costs from new tariffs. Despite beating profit expectations for the quarter, sales dropped for the fifth straight period, especially overseas. The stock declined 4.7% today, impacting the consumer staples sector.12

Technology stocks outperformed today, with the tech sector ETF rising 1.33%, while the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) gained just 0.13%. The lackluster movement in consumer staples reflects investor preference for growth sectors despite ongoing economic uncertainty, highlighting shifting market sentiment.34

Kimberly-Clark and Target, both components of the XLP ETF, have raised dividends for over 50 consecutive years, offering yields above 3%. The XLP itself yields around 2.5%, making it a reliable choice for defensive portfolios seeking steady income amid volatile markets, though individual stocks may offer higher payouts.25