As global markets heat up, it's a good idea to add defensive ASX dividend stocks to your portfolio. Interest rates around the world are plummeting to record lows and asset prices are very high right now.
5 defensive ASX dividend stocks to buy
As we head into next year, let's take a look at 5 recession-proof ASX dividend stocks for your portfolio in 2020.
1. Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG)
The Origin share price has climbed 26.11% higher since January in a strong 2019 performance.
Shareholders should be happy with the 3.14% dividend yield currently on offer with Origin shares as well. Despite trading near its 52-week high at $7.97 per share, I think Origin could be a good recession-proof ASX dividend stock.
People need energy, and with gas and electricity prices elevated, Origin could be in the buy zone next year.
2. Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)
Woolworths shares are a staple of the average ASX dividend portfolio.
The Woolworths share price is up 30.12% for the year while still yielding a 2.69% ASX dividend per annum. Despite increasing international competition, I think Woolworths remains well-positioned in the Consumer Staples sector.
When times are tough, Woolworths should maintain sales and continue to deliver income to its investors.
3. Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC)
Healthcare is a notoriously defensive sector given people still need to look after themselves even in a downturn.
Ramsay remains a big player in the ASX Healthcare sector with a $13.96 billion market cap. Given Ramsay shares are yielding 2.19% at the moment, I think they could be a top recession-proof ASX dividend stock in 2020.
4. Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW)
The Charter Hall Long WALE REIT can provide defensive income for your portfolio next year. The REIT invests mostly in commercial real estate with long-term, blue-chip tenants.
This holding could maintain your portfolio capital gains and while still receiving a 4.75% dividend yield.
5. St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM)
Gold has historically been a great counter-cyclical asset class to invest in.
While the St Barbara share price has fallen lower in 2019, it could still be a great hedge against an economic downturn. St Barbara shares are yielding a tidy 2.96% per annum and do look rather cheap at $2.66 per share.
If you're looking for some upside potential and countercyclical exposure, this could be the ASX dividend stock for you.
For pure income, this high-yield, cyclical stock could be a roll of the dice before head into 2020 and beyond.
