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We just covered the 14 Best Defensive Stocks to Invest In Now and AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) ranks 2nd on this list.

Following its massive restructuring to shed media assets like WarnerMedia, AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) has returned to its roots as a pure-play telecommunications giant, characterized by predictable cash flows and high barriers to entry. The primary defensive thesis for the firm is that wireless and fiber internet have moved from discretionary to essential services. Even during inflationary spikes or economic downturns, consumers are unlikely to cancel their primary phone line or home internet. This provides AT&T with a stable revenue floor that is largely decoupled from the broader business cycle. In early 2026, AT&T reported historically low postpaid phone churn, indicating high customer loyalty even as competitors like T-Mobile shifted pricing strategies.

READ MORE: 15 Best Stocks to Buy According to Billionaire Ray Dalio.

For defensive investors, the new AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T)  is prized for its ability to generate significant cash after capital expenditures. The company recently reaffirmed its 2026 free cash flow guidance of $17 billion–$18 billion. This liquidity allows the company to simultaneously pay down its debt and fund its generous dividend. The stock offers a dividend yield of approximately 6.0%–6.2%. Following the dividend right-sizing post-spinoff, the payout ratio is now at a very sustainable 40% of FCF, making it one of the safest high-yield options in the S&P 500. The company’s financial profile has significantly improved in recent months. AT&T has successfully moved toward its target net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio of 2.5x.

While we acknowledge the potential of T as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

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