We didn't need yesterday's closing numbers to tell us the second quarter wasn't pretty, but they're telling nonetheless. The S&P 500 lost 12% for the quarter and is now down over 15% from its April 23 high. Those losses do have an upside, though: There are now more (and better) bargains in the stock market than there were in mid-April. Here are three sector ETFs and three stocks that could help you prep your portfolio for gains in the second half of 2010 or beyond.
Health care
I've been vocal about favoring stocks in defensive sectors in the current environment. Health care has underperformed the market so far this year because of fears about the impact of health-care reform and patent expirations. I think health-care firms will evolve to meet these challenges and at 11 times this year's estimated earnings, health care is the second-cheapest sector in the S&P 500. Those are reasons to like the Health Care Select Sector SPDR
Goldman Sachs upgraded orthopedic implant manufacturer Zimmer Holdings
Energy
Energy has a bad name right now, tainted by BP's
You don't have to go down any rabbit holes looking for individual names in energy -- they're hiding in plain sight. Take oil and gas supermajors ExxonMobil
Think defensively, but expect volatility
There you have it: two sectors, three ETFs, and three stocks. More conservative investors may choose to favor health care, but don't fool yourself: This market is driven by macro concerns, and no area is protected from rising volatility right now.
One of the hallmarks of a high-quality stock is a sustainable, above-average dividend. Jordan DiPietro has identified the best dividend stock. Period.