Portland General Electric (POR) has been upgraded to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), reflecting growing optimism about the company's earnings prospects. This might drive the stock higher in the near term.
Portland General (POR) makes a strong case for investment, given its earnings and sales growth prospects, increasing consumer demand, and highly liquid operations.
Consumer confidence is sinking again due to economic uncertainties. Investing in low-beta defensive stocks like California Water Service, Portland General Electric Company (POR), MDU Resources (MDU), The Procter & Gamble Company (PG) and Ingredion (INGR) would be a safe bet.