In a world where financial screens glow red and headlines scream panic, it’s comforting to imagine a different picture—one where a woman relaxes in a hammock, sipping a smoothie, and working calmly on her laptop. This scene captures a growing sentiment among modern investors: the pursuit of passive income and portfolio stability, even while the world spins unpredictably.
The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) has had its fair share of ups and downs in 2025. From geopolitical uncertainty to rising interest rates and inflation pressures, the mood across the investment landscape is anything but tranquil. But not all shares are created equal. Some businesses have shown resilience through economic cycles and continue to offer dependable earnings and dividend payouts.
For those who seek to emulate the hammock-smoothie lifestyle—both literally and financially—there are a few ASX-listed companies worth noting. These stocks may not deliver overnight riches, but they offer a blend of steady income and relative price stability, ideal for investors who prefer to sleep well at night.
1. Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)
As one of Australia’s largest supermarket chains, Coles is an everyday essential. Whether the economy is booming or in a slump, people still need groceries, cleaning products, and basic household supplies. That makes Coles a defensive stock—its revenue stream remains largely intact through good times and bad.
Coles has also invested heavily in modernising its logistics with advanced distribution centres, which not only enhance efficiency but also help maintain consistent stock levels in stores. This translates to a better customer experience and greater brand loyalty. For investors, this means a stable business with strong cash flows and a reliable dividend.
Currently offering a grossed-up dividend yield of around 4.6%, Coles provides regular income, which can be reinvested or used to fund a relaxed lifestyle—just like our laptop-hammock enthusiast.
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2. Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)
Wesfarmers is a diversified powerhouse in the Australian retail landscape, owning brands such as Bunnings, Kmart, and Officeworks. These stores aren’t just popular—they’re ingrained in Australian consumer behaviour.
Bunnings, in particular, has become a weekend destination for many households, and its reputation for value and range gives it an edge over competitors. Kmart continues to thrive in the discount retail sector, especially as economic pressure drives consumers toward cost-effective options.
Wesfarmers has a history of adapting its business model and investing in innovation. Even during periods of inflation or economic slowdowns, the company’s revenues remain surprisingly robust. With a grossed-up dividend yield of 3.5%, it’s not the highest yielding option—but what it lacks in yield, it makes up for in long-term stability and capital growth potential.
3. Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL)
Often dubbed a “quiet achiever,” Soul Patts is one of the oldest and most consistently performing investment houses on the ASX. With a portfolio that spans industries including telecommunications, agriculture, resources, and industrials, it offers an inherently diversified exposure in one stock.
Unlike traditional managed funds, Soul Patts invests its own capital and takes a long-term approach to portfolio management. That philosophy has helped it deliver consistent returns for over a century.
What’s most impressive is its dividend history—it has paid out a dividend every year for the last 120 years and has increased it annually since 2000. Investors looking for a dependable income stream that adjusts with inflation may find Soul Patts an ideal candidate. Its current grossed-up dividend yield stands at 3.8%.
Living the Dream… or Investing for It?
The image of a woman enjoying the serenity of nature while managing her finances from a hammock might seem like a lifestyle goal reserved for the wealthy or retired. But with smart investing, even those just beginning their journey can inch closer to that dream.
By focusing on businesses that provide essential goods and services, asx have diversified income streams, and reward shareholders with sustainable dividends, asx investors can build a more stress-free portfolio—one that doesn’t require daily monitoring or sleepless nights during market turbulence.
While no stock is entirely asx immune to volatility, the likes of Coles, Wesfarmers, and asx Soul Patts have shown they can weather economic storms better than most. And that kind of peace of mind? It’s worth more than any smoothie.
