Non-tech stocks can still deliver huge gains

If there’s one thing that’s undoubtedly true over the past decade, it’s that technology stocks have been blistering hot.

But even so, many have overlooked simple businesses that aren’t overly flashy. Many of these companies fall into the Consumer Staples sector, whose businesses face steady demand across many economic conditions.

And perhaps to some surprise, a few of these non-technology companies have seen wildly strong performances YTD, with their lower-beta nature providing a nice shield against volatility.

Coca-Cola outperforms Meta

For example, Coca-Cola (KO Quick Quote KO - Free Report) has gained 26% in 2026, compared with a roughly 3% gain from high-flying Meta Platforms. The growth outlook for Coca-Cola remains steady, with Zacks Consensus estimates suggesting 9.7% earnings growth in 2026 and another 7% in FY27. Sales are expected to grow 9.7% and 7% across FY26 and FY27, respectively.

In addition, Coca-Cola’s latest results reflected nice strength, with Q2 sales climbing 7% YoY to $13.4 billion and EPS jumping 11% to $0.97. Importantly, the company has capitalized well on consumers’ shift toward less-sugary options, reflected in 16% YoY volume growth in Coca-Cola Zero Sugar in the above-mentioned period.  

While Consumer Staples stocks are typically labeled as ‘boring,’ their stability is undeniable.Simply put, you don’t have to buy tech stocks to see great returns. Lesser-discussed companies like Coca-Cola have built consistent, dependable growth by doing the ‘simple’ things exceptionally well. Of course, they’re likely not to impress investors given their less-flashy nature, but sometimes boring is better.