A regulated utility and they make green energy. 90% of revenues come from the U.S. It's defensive with a visible cash flow. Their renewable business is supported by long-term contracts. The 4.5% dividend is safe and will continue to rise. AQN recently raised $1 billion to fund their capital program this year into next. They've partnered with Chevron to develop their renewable energy. Last week, they bought a Chilean water utility and may buy the rest of it later. Overall, they're expanding their renewable power space. They have room to grow geographically here and abroad. Strong growth prospects here and an income stock. We're already seeing capital pour into renewable power globally and here in Canada. (Analysts’ price target is $20.59)

Food retailing is defensive. Unlike Empire, Loblaw owns Shoppers which gives it an edge. Loblaw is expanding their health business, entering digital health with a new acquisition. The locations of both Loblaw and SDM are great and boast a 30% market share. People are becoming comfortable using online medical services, a trend that will continue across North America long term. The growth rate in their click-and-collect and grocery delivery may not be that strong, but will continue to rise. Trades at 14x forward earnings, reasonable. The dividend is a moderate 2%. Even if we enter high volatility, this sector and stock will be fine. (Analysts’ price target is $80.82)