As inflation concerns persist amid Middle East geopolitical tensions and rising energy prices, healthcare stocks are positioned as defensive investments. Medtronic, a turnaround story with strong dividend history and accelerating growth, appeals to value investors. Eli Lilly, a GLP-1 drug leader expanding its pipeline, offers growth potential. Both companies benefit from healthcare's historical resilience to inflation.
Axe note: Medtronic and Eli Lilly stand out as defensive plays with growth potential in a tough inflationary environment.