3 ASX defensive stocks to buy when stock markets are turbulent

Every investor strives to include some defensive stocks in its portfolio because they provide stability during economic downturns and the following three ASX defensive stocks are among the best buys for navigating uncertain and volatile market conditions.

Woolworths Group Limited (ASX: WOW) 

is a solid ASX defensive stock because consumers will continue to purchase essential groceries and household products regardless of broader economic conditions.
Its defensive characteristics are further supported by a dominant supermarket network together with recurring customer demand and an extensive loyalty platform which will provide stability during uncertain economic periods.

The company in the third quarter reported group sales of $18.1 billion which was up 4.5% year-on-year and was supported by Australian Food sales growth of 5.9% while eCommerce sales jumped 20.2% to $2.7 billion due to faster digital adoption.

Several operating metrics also showed improvement as active Everyday Rewards members reached a record 10.7 million and digital platform traffic increased 10.5% and customer satisfaction scores remained above prior-year levels.

The company currently has a market capitalisation of $43.15 billion along with a fully franked annual dividend yield of 2.55% and will give investors exposure to a very good consumer staples business with dependable earnings and the potential to create shareholder value.

Telstra Group Limited (ASX: TLS) 

is one of the best defensive ASX stocks to buy because of its dominant position in Australian telecommunications.  It has a solid recurring revenue base and essential connectivity services that customers rely on regardless of economic conditions.

The company in its FY26 half-year result reported strong financial performance as EBIT rose 9.2% year-on-year to $2.0 billion while NPAT increased 8.1% to $1.2 billion.
Shareholders also benefited from a 10.5% increase in the interim dividend to 10.5 cents per share while Telstra expanded its on-market buyback program from up to $1 billion to up to $1.25 billion.
Management has an aim to improve returns on invested capital and maintain disciplined capital management.

The current market capitalisation is $56.10 billion and current annual dividend yield is 3.98% which has made Telstra an attractive defensive investment that can provide both passive income and steady growth across different market conditions.

Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) 

is considered one of ASX's best defensive stocks because it owns essential toll road assets that commuters and freight operators use every day which results in highly predictable cash flows.
The company delivered solid operating performance in the March quarter of 2026 as average daily traffic (ADT) across the group rose 3.0% compared with the prior corresponding period.

Growth projects such as the West Gate Tunnel in Melbourne and the 495 Northern Extension in North America will add to traffic volumes which supports long-term revenue growth across the portfolio.

More than 90% of Transurban's revenue is tied to CPI or fixed toll increases which helps protect earnings from inflation while the company currently has a market capitalisation of $46.74 billion and an annual unfranked dividend yield of 4.47%.

Transurban Queensland successfully raised $720 million through the Australian Medium Term Note market which provides greater funding flexibility for its long-term infrastructure portfolio.

(Source: Company Announcements)