Unilever shares offer defensive value during market crashes
- Unilever is considered a defensive FTSE 100 share during market downturns.
- The stock outperformed the wider FTSE 100 during both the 2008 and 2020 market crashes.
- Unilever reported 5.2% underlying sales growth in its third-quarter update.
- The company is currently priced at approximately 17 times forecast earnings.
- The Twelfth Magpie warns that all investments carry risks and values can fluctuate.
Unilever is a defensive FTSE 100 stock known for household brands like Dove shampoo and Cif surface cleaners. Reports from November 9 and November 11, 2026, identify a specific FTSE 100 share as a smart buy if the stock market crashes this winter.
Yahoo Finance UK also advised investors on November 9, 2026, to prepare for a seasonal market boom and identified two bargain shares to consider.
Unilever outperformed wider market in 2008 and 2020
Unilever shares fell by 16% during the 2008 financial crisis, while the wider FTSE 100 index declined by 31%.
During the 2020 Covid-crash, Unilever shares dropped 15% compared to a 33% decline for the broader FTSE 100 index.
Unilever reports 5.2% sales growth in third quarter
Unilever reported underlying sales growth of 5.2% in its third-quarter trading update, exceeding analyst forecasts of 4.8%. Product volumes increased by 2.9% during the quarter.
Management expects underlying volumes to reach 3% by the end of the year, alongside a modest improvement in margins.
AI bubble concerns contrast with Unilever’s 17x earnings valuation
AI-related tech shares are experiencing double-digit declines, leading some investors to believe the AI bubble may be near bursting.
Unilever remains priced at approximately 17 times forecast earnings.
The Twelfth Magpie highlights growth stock opportunities
The Motley Fool UK rebranded as The Twelfth Magpie, an independent company led by Mark Rogers, Chris Nials, and Heather Adlington. Rogers has led the Twelfth Magpie Share Advisor newsletter for nearly a decade.
Analysts at the platform conducted market research and identified 5 long-term 'Buys' for investors. On November 9, 2026, the company reported that an investor earned nearly six years of Legal & General dividends in less than two months by choosing a specific UK growth stock.
Regulatory warnings regarding investment risks and disclosures
The Twelfth Magpie Ltd states its content provides general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. The company does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of its information and notes that opinions may change without notice.
The Twelfth Magpie Ltd, its authors, and Richdale Brokers & Financial Services Ltd disclaim all liability for losses resulting from reliance on their published content. Richdale Brokers & Financial Services Ltd issues and approves financial promotions provided by The Twelfth Magpie Ltd.
The company warns that investment values fluctuate and investors may receive back less than their original investment. Investments in overseas markets carry additional risks, including currency fluctuations, taxes, dealing charges, and differing regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
- If the stock market crashes this winter, history says buying this FTSE 100 share could be a smart move (twelfthmagpie.com)
- FTSE 100 Index (Wikipedia — background) (en.wikipedia.org)
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