In the unpredictable landscape of financial markets, economic recessions are inevitable cyclical events that can significantly impact investment portfolios. While market timing is notoriously difficult, strategic allocation to defensive assets can help investors mitigate losses during economic contractions and market downturns. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) provide a convenient means for investors to gain exposure to recession-resistant asset classes without the need to select individual securities.

This article examines five ETF categories that have historically demonstrated resilience during economic downturns, offering investors practical options to protect their portfolios when recessionary clouds gather on the horizon.